WHY ARE ENERGY CONSERVATION TECHNIQUES IMPORTANT FOR LUNG PATIENTS?
Reduced lung functions limit energy expenditure needed for doing daily activities
Shortness of breath on doing activities further worsens on slightest activity
Patient’s activity tolerance progressively decreases
Energy conservation techniques help lung patients to use their available energy in the right manner
WHAT ARE THE PRINCIPLES OF ECT ?
WORK SIMPLIFICATION TECHNIQUES
EATING:
Avoid stooping forward
Keep your elbows supported
Have frequent light meals
Use O2, if on supplemental O2
BATHING:
Plan bathing at a time when you feel most when energetic
Use bronchodilators before bathing
Sit down, using a bath chair or board
Avoid too much water vapour
Take frequent breaks
Use a long handle sponge for scrubbing
Wrap yourself in a large towel after bathing
GROOMING:
Sit in front of the wash basin
Use electric razor or toothbrush to minimise arm effort
DRESSING:
Avoid wearing tight clothes
Avoid wearing clothes with zips & buttons in the back
Wear shoes without laces
Coordinate breathing with each action
SUMMARY
Energy conservation is very important for lung patients
Plan & prioritise your tasks to ensure that you do not feel fatigued
Always sit when possible, do not keep arms overhead for a long time
Keep back straight & avoid bending forwards
Breathe in when arms stretch out during a task, breathe out in the opposite. PLB is a must.
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