title: The cognitive side effects of modern ECT: patient experience or objective measurement?
abstract: This article explores the subjective experience of cognitive deficits of patients who are treated with electroconvulsive therapy, by using actual comments made in clinical situations. The material is divided into 4 themes: the need for clear information, the importance of validation of experience, the impact of daily disruptions, and the issue of self-esteem. It is argued that despite the low correlation which exists between objectively measured cognitive function and the subjectively experienced impairment, the discrepancy creates a need to take both perspectives into consideration rather than to rely on one or the other. The validity and limitations of using personal narrative as a relevant clinical parameter are discussed.
authors: Centre for Mental Health Studies, Faculty of Health, University of Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia. mvamos@mail.newcastle.edu.au
authors: Marina
authors: M
authors: Vamos
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D003072:Cognition Disorders / Q000209:etiology* / Q000523:psychology; D004565:Electroconvulsive Therapy / Q000009:adverse effects*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D017060:Patient Satisfaction