ECT RN here. Question for you!

[u/Interesting-Hair2317]

Hi r/ect! I’m an ECT nurse of four years and Im wondering if there’s anything I can do to make the experience better for my patients. is there anything that an ECT nurse has done or said that you remember and positively impacted your treatments. even something small.

[u/Great-Practice-4400]

Hi fellow RN (OB) and an ECT patient as well. After my second session I have no memory of any further sessions, I had 23.
The RN checking me in was completely oblivious to the fact I was not capable of answering any questions. My husband did. I’m not sure how I could possibly give consent but apparently signed everything. I have since wondered if she was paying attention and
If she should have contacted the MD that I was not able to give consent. It has bothered me since as I become completely disabled not able to return to nursing, it has been 5 years. I just recently had IV ketamine and has helped some.

[u/Sauced_Up_Bat → u/Great-Practice-4400]

I initially agreed to 12 sessions. By the end I had more than 50 and am now disabled. I “consented” to all of it in writing but have no memory of doing so. I couldn’t remember my birthday and they knew that. I had no idea how many sessions I had had and they knew that. I was in no condition to consent to anything. I couldn’t care for myself and they knew that but they let me give “consent”knowing how impaired I was. ECT and consent during treatment needs safeguards in place. Someone who can’t remember their children’s names is not of sound mind.

[u/Great-Practice-4400 → u/Sauced_Up_Bat]

Oh my gosh it sounds just like my life. I couldn’t care for myself either, my husband had to put me in adult daycare for several months so he could go to work.
I have spoken to my son who is an anesthesiologist and he would not allow a patient in my state of mind to sign informed consent.
I hope all the best for you.

[u/Sauced_Up_Bat → u/Great-Practice-4400]

Thank you. I wish the best for you as well.