Mental Health Nurse experiences of delivering care to severely depressed adults receiving electroconvulsive therapy.
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Authors
Lonergan, Anita
Timmins, Fiona
Donohue, Gráinne
Issue Date
2020-10-07
Type
Journal Article
Language
en
Keywords
electroconvulsive therapy , mental health nursing , stigma
Alternative Title
Abstract
Background
There is a considerable dearth of literature on attitudes towards Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) as a treatment for severe depression. Despite being a highly effective treatment, it is still stigmatized even among professionals. Understanding perceptions and knowledge related to ECT treatment among healthcare providers is important for ensuring that treatment can be safely explored as a treatment option with patients.
Aim
The overall aim of this study is to explore the views of mental health nurses who provide nursing care to people receiving ECT for severe depressive illness in a mental health setting.
Methods
This is a qualitative study using focus groups (n = 2) with 14 mental health nurses who had a minimum of 3 months experience caring for older adults receiving ECT. Transcripts were subjected to a thematic analysis. Full ethical approval was granted for this study.
Results
In total, four themes were identified exploring attitudinal changes, managing patient dignity, reflecting changes in practice and managing the unknown. In general, participants experienced ECT as a positive treatment option for adults with severe depressive illness contributing to an enhanced quality of life.
Conclusion
Findings indicate a desire to improve person-centred care for patients undergoing ECT. Educational support for nurses who work in this area would improve confidence on work practices and lead to improved patient experience. Mental health personnel without direct experience of the treatment should be exposed to educational modules to decrease stigma and to best facilitate informed decision-making among the patient cohort.
Description
Citation
Lonergan, A., Timmins, F., & Donohue, G. (2021). Mental Health Nurse experiences of delivering care to severely depressed adults receiving electroconvulsive therapy. Journal of psychiatric and mental health nursing, 28(3), 309–316. https://doi.org/10.1111/jpm.12692
Publisher
License
© 2020 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Journal
Journal of psychiatric and mental health nursing
Volume
28
Issue
3
PubMed ID
ISSN
1365-2850