A nurse is reinforcing teaching about passive range-of-motion exercises with the family of a client who has had a stroke. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the teaching?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Support the extremity above and below each joint during the exercises: Proper support prevents joint strain and injury while allowing smooth movement. Supporting both proximal and distal parts of the limb ensures safety, maintains alignment, and reduces the risk of dislocation or tissue damage during passive range-of-motion exercises. B. Repeat each exercise movement 10 times: The number of repetitions can vary based on the client’s tolerance and care plan. Prescribing an exact number without individualized assessment may not be appropriate and is not the key safety instruction. C. Move each joint just past the point of resistance: Forcing joints past resistance can cause pain, muscle tears, or joint injury. Passive range-of-motion exercises should stay within the client’s comfortable range to protect tissues. D. Position the bed at mid-thigh level: Bed positioning at a specific height is not essential for performing passive range-of-motion exercises. The focus should be on proper limb support and technique rather than bed height.