During electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), oxygen is administered. What is the primary purpose of providing oxygen during this procedure?

Question

Question

This question was previously asked in

AIIMS NORCET 7 Prelims Memory Based Paper 2024

Answer 1

Correct Answer: To maintain an adequate oxygen supply to the brain

Rationale:

During electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), the primary purpose of providing oxygen is to ensure that the brain receives an adequate supply of oxygen throughout the procedure.
ECT involves inducing controlled seizures in the patient, which can potentially affect breathing. By administering oxygen, healthcare providers aim to prevent hypoxia (a deficiency in the amount of oxygen reaching the tissues).
Adequate oxygenation is crucial during ECT to protect brain function and ensure patient safety.

Explanation of Other Options:

To prevent the patient from feeling any pain

Rationale: This is not the primary purpose of administering oxygen during ECT. Pain prevention is usually managed with anesthesia and muscle relaxants, which are given to the patient before the procedure begins.

To facilitate muscle relaxation and prevent injury

Rationale: Muscle relaxation and injury prevention are managed with the use of muscle relaxants, not oxygen. Muscle relaxants reduce the severity of muscle contractions during the induced seizure, thereby minimizing the risk of physical injury.

To enhance the effectiveness of the therapy

Rationale: While oxygen administration is important for patient safety, it does not directly enhance the therapeutic effect of ECT. The effectiveness of ECT is related to the electrical stimulation and the resulting controlled seizure activity.

Conclusion:

Administering oxygen during electroconvulsive therapy is primarily done to maintain an adequate oxygen supply to the brain, ensuring the patient's safety and preventing hypoxia. Other aspects such as pain prevention, muscle relaxation, and the effectiveness of the therapy are managed through different means, including anesthesia and muscle relaxants.

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