Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)
For some patients with severe or treatment-resistant psychiatric symptoms, a physician may consider Electroconvulsive Therapy as part of the treatment plan. ECT is a physician-directed procedure performed under general anesthesia after psychiatric and medical evaluation, informed consent, and individualized review of potential benefits, risks, and alternatives.
Future serviceECT is part of PBBHC's planned continuum for clinically appropriate adult and geriatric patients. Contact intake for availability and referral information.
What ECT involves
ECT uses a brief electrical stimulus to produce a controlled seizure while the patient is under general anesthesia and receives a muscle relaxant. The decision to recommend ECT is individualized and based on the patient's psychiatric condition, treatment history, medical status, potential benefits, risks, available alternatives, and the role ECT may play in the broader treatment plan.
Clinical safeguards
- Psychiatric evaluation before treatment is recommended
- Medical evaluation and anesthesia planning
- Clear informed-consent discussion of purpose, potential benefits, alternatives, risks, and expected treatment process
- Monitoring before, during, and after each treatment
- Ongoing assessment of response, confusion, memory effects, and other clinical concerns
- Coordination with the patient's inpatient or outpatient psychiatric treatment plan
- Discharge and continuing-care planning when ECT continues after hospitalization
Potential memory and cognitive effects
Confusion and memory problems can occur with ECT, including longer-lasting gaps in memory for some patients. Before treatment, the clinical team reviews these risks and explains how the patient's response and tolerability will be monitored.
Inpatient and outpatient use
Within the planned clinical model, a patient receiving ECT during hospitalization remains admitted to the assigned inpatient program and continues to receive standard inpatient psychiatric treatment. When clinically appropriate and operationally available, ECT may continue as a coordinated outpatient service following discharge.
Frequently asked questions
Is ECT performed under anesthesia?+
Yes. ECT is performed under general anesthesia and uses a muscle relaxant, with appropriate medical monitoring.
Does ECT cause memory problems?+
Confusion and memory problems can occur, and some patients may experience longer-lasting memory gaps. These risks are reviewed during evaluation and consent.
How many treatments will I need?+
There is no single number for every patient. The treatment course is physician-directed and depends on the condition, clinical response, tolerability, and overall treatment plan.
Is ECT available now?+
ECT is part of PBBHC's planned clinical continuum. Current operational status, eligibility, and referral requirements should be confirmed directly with PBBHC before arranging care.
Confirm ECT availability before seeking treatment.
Contact PBBHC for current program status, eligibility requirements, and the approved referral pathway.