Electroconvulsive therapy: present and future.

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) has been used to treat patients for 60 years. It is a humane and effective treatment. It is now firmly established as an important and effective method of treating certain severe forms of depression. Still, very little is known about its mode of action. Research in the refinement of administration has reduced undesirable side effects. There are almost no absolute contraindications to its administration. Nurses are involved directly with patients before, during, and after treatment.