Assessment of Knowledge and attitudes of psychiatric nurses toward electroconvulsive therapy

Abstract

Introductionknowledge and atittudes of psychiatric nurses should be continuously evaluated and updated to ensure a quality care in electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) unit.ObjectivesAssessment of the psychiatric nurses knowledge and attitudes towards ECT.MethodsA cross sectional descriptive study was conducted in multiples psychiatric departments in Razi Hospital Tunisia between January and April 2021.We asked 30 psychiatric nurses using a questionnaire evaluating their knowledge and attitudes towards ECT technique and its impact on the medical care.ResultsOur study revealed a lack of knowledge on ECT among psychiatric nurses.In fact, 93% of nurses reported that schizophrenia represents the most frequent indication. Pregnancy was considered as a contraindication by all participants. ECT was not recognized as a first line treatment and Only few knew the complet medical checkup before ECT.As for their opinion about this technique, 73 % of the nurses have a positive attitude towards ECT and think that it is very effective .ConclusionsNurses have a major role in the progress of every ECT-session .For that, specific training can only improve their knowledge and promote more positive attitude toward ECT.DisclosureNo significant relationships.