Question

A psychiatrist is working on an inpatient unit and one of her patients has a very resistant case of depression. She considers the option of giving the patient electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). Which one of the following should make her most concerned about giving this patient ECT?

A. Pregnancy
B. Past seizures
C. Family history of severe depression
D. Psychotic symptoms
E. Recent myocardial infarction

Answer 1

The psychiatrist should be most concerned about giving the patient ECT if they have recently had a myocardial infarction (heart attack) (option E).

Step-by-step explanation:

The psychiatrist should be most concerned about giving the patient ECT if they have recently had a myocardial infarction (heart attack) (option E). Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) involves passing an electric current through the brain to intentionally induce a seizure. This procedure carries certain risks, and patients with recent myocardial infarction may not be stable enough to undergo ECT. It is important to prioritize the patient's cardiovascular health in this situation.