Medico-legal implications of electro-convulsive therapy--a Singapore viewpoint.
The clinical characteristics of 100 consecutive cases of ECT in a state mental hospital were surveyed. The medico-legal implications with regards to indications for and consent to ECT were looked into. The findings showed that ECT was given mostly for management reasons rather than based on diagnosis. Only 2 patients out of 100 gave their own consent. The discrepancy between teaching and practice was discussed.
Chee
K T
KT
Unit III, Woodbridge Hospital, Singapore.
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D003466:Cultural Characteristics; D003657:Decision Making; D004565:Electroconvulsive Therapy / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007258:Informed Consent / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012846:Singapore