Articles



Energy conservation

This list was compiled by an OT at a
Cleveland, OH hospital who wishes to remain anonymous.

Energy Conservation and
Work Simplification Techniques

Principles of Energy Conservation
Balance activity with rest
Plan ahead
Set priorities
Pace activity
Learn activity tolerance

 
Principles of Work Simplification
Slide, don't lift
Eliminate unnecessary motions
Sit to work whenever possible
Use proper work heights
Avoid stooping, bending, and over-reaching
Store supplies where used

 

I. Self-Care
  Choose combs, brushes, etc. with large handles -- they are easier to grip.
  Use pipe insulation from a hardware store, as it can be used to enlarge utensil handles.
  Put on a terry cloth bathrobe if you can't dry your back.
  Use a bath brush for feet and back -- get one with a long handle.
  If you have difficulty manipulating medication containers, ask your physician to write, "Do not put in child-proof container."
  Ease toileting and bathing by using adapted bathroom, i.e., elevated commode, safety rails, tub bench, hand-held shower and grab bars.
   
II. Clothing
  Select larger clothing than usual, as it is easier to put on and take off.
  Select clothing that opens in front and opens all the way so that you do not have to step into it.
  Select clothing with large flat buttons
  Difficulty with small fasteners? Adaptive equipment is available.
  Ease zipper manipulation by using a large paper clip or ring on zipper.
  Buy pants with elastic waistbands.
  Sore shoulder, hip? Put sore arm/leg in first and take out last.
  Use a long shoe horn if bending over is difficult or not allowed.
 

 
III.

Bathroom safety
Most accidents occur in the home, and a large majority of them occur in the bathroom. Assure safety with bathroom mobility by considering the following equipment.
  Grab bars in the bathtub as they are essential safety items for all.
  Non-skid strips in bottom of tub.
  Shower chair and hand held shower.
  Raised toilet seat and/or toilet safety rails, as they can provide additional support.
 

 
IV. Cleaning
  Use tongs to pick up objects from the floor.
  Do not reach when using the dust mop.
  Use light weight, long handled tools.
  Use tea cart to transport cleaning equipment.
  When shower curtain gets dirty, throw it in the washing machine with a towel.
  Carry a light basket with all the cleaning supplies you need.
  Use a professional cleaning service occasionally.
  Put pail on a rolling dolly.
 

 
V. Meal Planning, Preparation, Service, and Clean-Up
  Use surface appliances rather than a low oven when possible.
  Use fireplace matches to light gas oven.
  Gather all supplies and position them where they are to be used before starting the first step of the job.
  Use tea cart to transport heavy objects and to save steps.
  Slide filled pans along stove and counter tops instead of lifting them.
  Use a pull cart to bring food home from the supermarket rather than carrying shopping bags.
  Use an electric appliance when possible (i.e., blender, mixer, can opener, etc.)
  Use prepared mixes, frozen foods, or packaged foods.
  Plan one dish meals.
  Prepare extra portions for easy reheating later.
  Use light weight pots and pans with Teflon/Silverstone coating.
  Wear apron with pockets so that you can carry objects.
  Eliminate unnecessary steps:
  a. Let dishes drain dry
  b. Use paper dinner napkins instead of linen ones
  c. Use placemats instead of tablecloths
  d. Soak pots in hot water and detergent to eliminate vigorous scouring
 

 
VI. Laundry
  Pin socks together before washing.
  Sort clothes on a table, never on the floor.
  Use sinks that are at a proper work height.
  Sit to iron.
  Use fabric softener to avoid wrinkles.
  Use three baskets to collect dirty clothes: to avoid sorting light, medium, and dark colors.
  Raise front loading washer/dryer on cinder blocks.
 

 
VII. Communication
  Use book stand or music stand to hold books.
  Use large print books and magazines, or use a magnifying glass.
  Use writing aids with large handles (that are built up with firm tape).
  Use a card holder which is commercially available, or use a scrub brush.
  Ease telephone speaking by using a phone holder.
 

 
VIII. Storage
  Store items where they are used.
  Use pull-out storage bins for vegetables, etc. to avoid reaching.
  Hang pots on wall, if dust is not a problem.
  Install pull-out or swing-out shelving.
  Keep measuring utensils in containers where they are used.
 

 
IX. Shopping
  Call department store ahead of time and reserve a wheelchair.
  Call ahead and make sure items you want are available.
  Keep memo pad and pencil in all rooms to keep shopping list up to date.
  Shop at non-peak hours.
  Have grocery store deliver groceries.
 

 
X. Correct Body Mechanics Save Energy
  Sit and stand correctly by using good posture.
  Lift with your legs while keeping your back straight.
  Avoid reaching.
  Push, don't pull.
  Use both hands to carry items when possible.
  Slide, don't lift.
  Hold objects close to your body when carrying.
 

 
XI. Pace
  Work and move at a moderate pace.
  a. Fast walking takes 1-1/2 times as much energy as slow walking.
  b. Walking up stairs takes 7 times as much energy as walking on level ground.
  Take frequent short rest periods while you are walking to avoid getting tired, instead of a long rest period after you get tired.
  Use slow, flowing motions rather than fast, jerky movements.
  Plan ahead to avoid rushing. This allows you to work at a relaxed pace.
  Alternate light and heavy work throughout the day and week.
  Avoid sudden bursts of activity.
 

 
XII. Work Heights
  Use work surfaces that are at a level that allows you to work without bending or raising your hand above the elbow.
  Adapt counter space or use a lapboard for wheelchair patients.
  Order desk arms on a wheelchair to allow an individual access to appropriate tables.