What does passive range of motion involve?

Passive range of motion involves the nursing assistant performing exercises for the resident. This technique is used to maintain or improve the flexibility and mobility of joints when the resident is unable to move independently due to conditions such as weakness, paralysis, or post-surgery recovery.

In passive range of motion exercises, the nursing assistant carefully moves the resident's limbs through the available range of motion without the resident actively participating. This can help prevent stiffness, improve circulation, and reduce the risk of contractures, which can significantly impact a resident’s quality of life.

The other options describe different scenarios related to joint movement but do not align with the concept of passive range of motion. For instance, a resident moving their own joints refers to active range of motion, while joint manipulation by a physician pertains to specific therapeutic interventions that fall outside the scope of the nursing assistant's responsibilities. Using medical devices for movement would involve assistive technology rather than the hands-on care that defines passive range of motion exercises.