A patient diagnosed with major depressive disorder will begin electroconvulsive therapy tomorrow. Which interventions are routinely implemented before the treatment? (Select all that apply.)
A) Administer pretreatment medication 30 to 45 minutes before treatment.
B) Withhold food and fluids for a minimum of 6 hours before treatment.
C) Remove dentures, glasses, contact lenses, and hearing aids.
D) Restrain the patient in bed with padded limb restraints.
E) Assist the patient to prepare an advance directive.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The correct interventions reflect routine electroconvulsive therapy preparation, which is similar to preoperative preparation: sedation and anticholinergic medication before anesthesia, maintaining nothing-by-mouth status to prevent aspiration during and after treatment, airway maintenance, and general safety by removing prosthetic devices. Restraint is not part of the pretreatment protocol. An advance directive is prepared independent of this treatment.

A Patient Diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder Will Begin Electroconvulsive