Cervella for Quarantined Patients
The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly increased the number of patients needing to stay in isolation/quarantine for an extended period of time. Many of the quarantined patients have or are beginning to show symptoms of anxiety and often comorbid depression or insomnia.
Healthcare practitioners, especially those working in group healthcare facilities (e.g. nursing homes), have reached out to us inquiring about suitability of Cervella for treatment of emerging anxiety, depression, or insomnia symptoms for their quarantined patients. Given the number of inquiries, we would like to summarize our thoughts below:
We believe that implementing the Cervella CES medial device as a first line treatment option in these situations is a safe and low-risk option for the patients. Cranial Electrotherapy Stimulator (CES) devices have been proven to present low risk from an adverse events standpoint while offering very good efficacy. They are not habit-forming and have few contraindications. Unlike drug-based therapies, CES device therapy can be discontinued immediately without risk of withdrawal symptoms in case the patient is a non-respondent.
The main area of concern in using Cervella in group healthcare facilities is strict adherence to decontamination procedures in order to prevent viral or bacterial cross-contamination between patients. Since the device is necessarily in contact with the patient’s skin, the preferred (and safest) method to prevent cross-contamination is to use a dedicated Cervella device per patient. However, if Cervella must be shared between more than one patient, the the entire device, including ear cushion electrodes, should be decontaminated using isopropyl alcohol wipes. Do not use bleach (e.g. Cavicide) products as they may discolor and damage plastic parts. Note that no parts of the device are designed to be sterilized.
The treatment protocol should be the same as if Cervella was being used in a home setting environment. Thirty minutes daily is the recommended time at the default frequency setting (100Hz) while using the lowest intensity setting (one that is barely perceptible). The device can be used any time of the day but please remember that some patients will feel tired/sleepy after use so for those treatment before bedtime may be preferred. Conversely, some patients may feel energized/alert after treatment, so for those, earlier in the day should be the preferred timing. Remember, stronger intensity does not mean faster or better clinical outcomes. Consistency and full thirty minutes per day are key to successful treatment results.
Please do not hesitate to contact us at support@cervella.us or call us at (855) 413-3300 with any additional questions.
Your Cervella Clinical Support Staff