Knowledge of and attitude toward electroconvulsive therapy: a survey of Hungarian anesthesiology residents.
OBJECTIVE
To assess the knowledge of and attitudes toward electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) in Hungarian anesthesiology residents.


METHODS
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.
Gazdag
Gábor
G
Consultation-Liaison Psychiatric Service, Szt. László Hospital, Budapest, Hungary. gazdag@lamb.hu
Molnár
Eszter
E
Ungvari
Gabor S
GS
Iványi
Zsolt
Z
D000328:Adult; D000776:Anesthesiology / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D004565:Electroconvulsive Therapy; D005260:Female; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D006814:Hungary; D007396:Internship and Residency; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires