Analysis of Bread Bag Closures for Individuals with Rheumatoid Arthritis

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to analyze four different plastic bag closure devices to determine if there was a difference in their ease of use for individuals with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) between closures currently on the market and an autoclave bag closure currently in use in medical laboratories. This was based on research into issues experienced by individuals with RA and their abilities to perform activities of daily living. This study evaluated the issues of opening and closing bread bags so that they are accessible to people with functional limitations due to the effects of RA. It was determined that the autoclave closure is not a preferred instrument for use by individuals with RA due to the difficulties in small object manipulation, the strength required to use the device and its unfamiliarity. However, closures currently available pose considerable frustration to the user and need to be re-evaluated.

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