le to inform Jane about why her throat might be sore after her treatment.
             The inquiry from Jane, in turn led to the development of the question, later stated, and became the basis of the rest of this document.
             Electro Convulsive Therapy, (E.C.T.), Is a psychiatric intervention or treatment, in which a brief electrical stimulant is given to the brain via electrodes placed on the temples. The electrical charge given lasts between one and four seconds, and induces an epileptic like seizure. Before treatment, the patient is anaesthetised and given an injection of muscle relaxant, which depresses breathing, and oxygen is given until the patient is able to breath naturally again. Most patients receive between six and twelve treatments at a rate of one a day, three times a week. E.C.T. can be given without the patients consent under United Kingdom legislation, Mental Health Act (1997). The treatment is usually given to people with severe depression, which has not responded to other forms of treatment such as anti- depressants. However, it is sometimes used for those with a diagnosis of bi-polar affective disorder (manic depression) or schizophrenia. It is usually only given after the risks have been explained and with the patients consent, or in extreme cases when the patients life is at risk, (Kolb and Wiltshaw, 1998).
             The author observed that as a procedure the treatment is usually uncomfortable and distressing for the patient, leading to various problems with for example confusion, disorientation and discomfort. Nurses have to deal with these problems during most sessions and nursing care varies according to staff experience. Problems with airway management during treatment can quickly become life threatening and have to be closely monitored and dealt with efficiently. This not only saves lives, but also is vital to the patient, in order to reduce anxiety and discomfort during the recovery stages of the treatment.
             The major concern ...