ect nurses

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is there anyone on here that is a ect nurse?

elkpark

14,633 Posts

I've never had a job specifically/exclusively as an "ECT nurse," but I've worked in settings where it was done, and have participated in the procedure and worked with the clients receiving ECT. What, specifically, are you looking for or wanting to know?

302queen

47 Posts

is it always done under sedations or are there cases where it is done with the pt awake

elkpark

14,633 Posts

As far as I know, general anesthesia is always used and is the standard of care nowadays, but I can't swear to that.

MrChicagoRN, RN

2,589 Posts

Specializes in Leadership, Psych, HomeCare, Amb. Care. Has 30 years experience.

Yes, ECT is done under sedation, but TMS is not.

jenin

22 Posts

I have maintenance ect every 2 weeks under general anaesthesia. I am in Australia but I cannot imagine it being done anywhere with the pt awake! No way!

I am an ECT nurse. A general anesthetic and a muscle relaxant are given. The anesthetic is short acting.

Topaz7

126 Posts

Specializes in Psychiatric- Detox and ECT.

I'm an ECT nurse as well, and yes it's done under general anesthesia with a muscle relaxant. If they didn't it would be torture

Topaz7

126 Posts

Specializes in Psychiatric- Detox and ECT.

Accidentally cut off my post mid way. Anyways it would be no better than how they did it years ago when they used it to punish people "out of their bad behavior."

Specializes in pediatrics; PICU; NICU. Has 45 years experience.
Yes, ECT is done under sedation, but TMS is not.

I'm not a psych nurse but I was just wondering what TMS is. I've never heard that term.

Topaz7

126 Posts

Specializes in Psychiatric- Detox and ECT.

Transcranial magnetic stimulation It's a less invasive new were approved treatment

Specializes in pediatrics; PICU; NICU. Has 45 years experience.

Thanks, Topaz, I'd never heard of that before.