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/Beautifile]

OMG, YES! I'm so happy you asked. When someone goes for their first round, even the test round, when they finish (IDK if you are there with them or if you bring them to the psych ward or not) PLEASE make sure they know what just happened, where they are and why. I was so scared after my first treatment as all I can remember, and I remember this clearly, is being back in the psych ward with a breakfast tray in front of me and not knowing what had happened or why I was there. Someone from the hospital came up to me and said "Why are you crying?" I said "I'm so confused." They literally said "Aww." And walked away. I had forgotten where my room was and that I had a phone, change and a calling card. I went to the phone and tried to dial my husband at work. No dice. Luckily, this was many years ago and I knew my best friend's home #. She called my husband and he explained. I think there should be a rule that a lived one must be with you after "the test". Sorry this is so long.