Knowledge and attitude towards electroconvulsive therapy among medical interns.

BACKGROUND: Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is effective and affordable form of treatment for a range of Psychiatric disorders. ECT carries social stigma even among the medical personnel owing to misconceptions and negative attitudes. AIMS: The aim of this study is to explore the knowledge and attitude towards ECT among medical interns in Bhaskar General Hospital, Telangana. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was carried out among medical interns using Kinnair & Dawson self-administered questionnaire, that consists of questions related to knowledge (21 items), attitudes (13 items). Medical interns were divided into 2 groups: those who observed an ECT session and those who did not. RESULTS: The survey was completed by 82 out of 120 medical interns yielding a response rate of 68.3%. Attitudes towards ECT of medical interns who observed an ECT session became more positive than who did not. Likewise, medical interns who observed ECT were more likely to agree to receive ECT and had a better knowledge of ECT when compared to the other group. A minority thought that it was barbaric and believed it was given without anesthesia, that it causes brain damage and personality changes as side-effects. Students with minimal knowledge who haven’t observed ECT session showed more negative attitudes. CONCLUSION: The experience of witnessing ECT during clinical rotation might enhance positive attitude towards ECT at the same time correct their negative perceptions of ECT.