Riverview electroshock treatments 'safe'

A new report by the provincial government gives medical staff at Riverview Hospital the green light to continued the use of electroshock therapy.

The review, commissioned by Health Minister Corky Evans, says the practice is "medically appropriate", and is conducted according to proper procedures and guidelines.

The report concludes the delivery of electroshock therapy at Riverview is of high quality.

However, the report also says the hospital needs a more complete data base on patients.

It also raises serious quesitons about the working environment, saying some staff were afraid to speak out for fear of retribution.

Evans ordered the review because of concerns about a sharp increase in the number of patients receiving electroshock therapy.