Knowledge of and attitude toward electroconvulsive therapy: a survey of Hungarian anesthesiology residents.

AIM

To assess the knowledge of and attitudes toward electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) in Hungarian anesthesiology residents.

METHOD

A self-administered questionnaire comprising 39 questions compiled by the authors.

RESULTS

Of the 82 sophomore residents who completed the questionnaire, 29 have administered ECT. These residents were significantly more likely to consider ECT to be efficacious and less likely to be dangerous or lethal than the other residents (P = 0.017 and 0.004). Fifty-three residents (65%) rated their knowledge of ECT as "minimal," 26 (32%) as "moderate," and 1 (1.3%) as "considerable." In the case of severe depression, 49% of the "minimal" knowledge group would consent to be treated with ECT. The corresponding figure in the "moderate" knowledge group was 16% (P = 0.009).

CONCLUSIONS

Having previously administered ECT had a positive effect on the anesthesiology residents' attitudes toward ECT. Having a level of knowledge about ECT treatment that was perceived as "minimal" did not prejudice residents against it.