Virtual Reality as a Tool to Reduce Pre-procedure Anxiety Prior ECT Via Enhancing Patient Education

Status: Recruiting
Location: See location...
Intervention Type: Other
Study Type: Interventional
Study Phase: Not Applicable
SUMMARY

Lack of patient knowledge about ECT (electroconvulsive therapy) is a leading cause of treatment fear with 60% of ECT patients reporting high levels of anxiety. The purpose of this study is to determine if using Virtual Reality (VR) to allow patients' to experience a virtual ECT education session before treatment is useful in lowering treatment anxiety and increasing knowledge about ECT if compared to standard treatment. In addition, measuring heart rate and blood pressure levels before ECT treatment will allow us to assess changes in anxiety levels. Individuals who choose to participate will be placed (participant will have a 50% chance to be placed in either group) to view either a virtual reality video to experience a virtual ECT session, or to receive standard preparation, i.e. a discussion with a psychiatrist. Before and after this session participants will be asked to complete a measurement of their anxiety level and knowledge about ECT (ECT Attitude \& Knowledge Questionnaire). Just before ECT treatment, blood pressure, heart rate and anxiety level will be measured. Participants will also complete cognitive and depression assessments. This study will help to develop a relationship between healthcare providers and patients and their families to help with education before ECT treatment.

Eligibility
Participation Requirements
Sex: All
Minimum Age: 18
Healthy Volunteers: f
View:

• Age ≥18

• First time undergoing ECT within the last year

• Outpatient/inpatient recommended for ECT

• Within 2-4 days of ECT procedure or no ECT within the past year

• Referred by psychiatrist

• Able to understand English

• Able to watch and respond to questions

Locations
Other Locations
Canada
Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre
RECRUITING
Toronto
Contact Information
Primary
Fahad Alam, MD, M.Sc.
Fahad.Alam@Sunnybrook.ca
416-480-4864
Backup
Lilia Kaustov, PhD
lilia.kaustov@sunnybrook.ca
416-480-6100
Time Frame
Start Date: 2020-11-27
Estimated Completion Date: 2024-12-31
Participants
Target number of participants: 64
Treatments
Experimental: Immersive Virtual Reality
Patients will be immersed in the ECT experience using VR-ECT 360o video (VR-ECT).
Other: Standard Treatment
Patients will receive standard preparation for their ECT session.
Related Therapeutic Areas
Sponsors
Leads: Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre

This content was sourced from clinicaltrials.gov