Assisting with Range of Motion Exercises Flashcards

A resident has had a stroke affecting their right side. During ROM, the CNA should:

Answer: Exercise both sides, starting with the unaffected side

Both sides are exercised; starting with the unaffected side allows the resident to understand the motion before the affected side is moved.

Plantar flexion of the foot refers to:

Answer: Pointing the toes downward away from the shin

Plantar flexion is the movement of pointing the foot downward, like pressing a gas pedal.

Which of the following is a sign that ROM exercises should be STOPPED and reported to the nurse?

Answer: The joint appears swollen and feels hot to the touch

Swelling and heat at a joint indicate possible inflammation or injury and require immediate reporting.

When assisting with shoulder abduction, the CNA moves the resident's arm:

Answer: Away from the body out to the side

Abduction moves the limb away from the midline of the body, so shoulder abduction raises the arm out to the side.

A resident receiving ROM exercises is in a wheelchair. The CNA should:

Answer: Lock the wheelchair wheels before beginning

Locking the wheelchair wheels prevents the chair from rolling and keeps both the resident and CNA safe during exercises.

The term 'extension' as used in ROM exercises means:

Answer: Straightening a joint to increase the angle between body parts

Extension straightens or opens a joint, increasing the angle, which is the opposite of flexion.

How should the CNA position themselves when performing ROM exercises to protect their own body?

Answer: Use proper body mechanics with feet apart and back straight

Using proper body mechanics — stable base, straight back — protects the CNA from back and muscle injuries.