P-1371 - A survey of psychiatrists' attitude toward electroconvulsive therapy

Abstract

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) was first used in the United Kingdom in 1939. Although its use has been declined for several decades, it is given to about 11,000 people a year. ECT is commonly used in depression in the majority of patients, but occasionally used for catatonic schizophrenia and severe mania. Unfortunately, there have been issues raised regarding its negative impacts on memory capacity of the patient. ECT until now has gained the support of most professional psychiatric associations, although there are still some health professionals who are doubtful about its effectiveness.The aim is to find out psychiatrists' attitude toward ECT in the Dudley and Walsall Mental health Partnership NHS Trust in The UK. A self administered mail survey was used to gather demographic data and information on attitudes toward ECT. 11 quetions were use. : • About 60 % responded the mail survey. • Respondents have mean age of 47. • Consultants and middle grade doctors are major participants. • About 96% administered ECT before. • 100% think that ECT should be available to their patients and 96% found that ECT is useful. 88% believed that ECT is safe. • 79% would consider ECT for themselves or family member if indicated. Most had the positive attitude toward ECT and they believed that ECT was safe alternative treatment for their patients and would consider for themselves and their family members regardless of whether they had ever administered ECT. Therefore the majority of psychiatrists in our trust supported the use of ECT.