Restorative Skills Range of Motion Exercises 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the purpose of range of motion (ROM) exercises in restorative care?
- To maintain or improve joint flexibility and prevent contractures (Correct answer)
- To build cardiovascular endurance
- To replace ambulation training
- To strengthen muscles to competition levels
Correct answer: To maintain or improve joint flexibility and prevent contractures
ROM exercises maintain or improve joint flexibility, prevent contractures, and preserve the resident's functional mobility.
Question 2: During passive range of motion (PROM), who provides the movement force?
- The caregiver moves the joint for the resident (Correct answer)
- The resident moves independently
- A mechanical device provides all movement
- The resident uses the unaffected limb to move the affected one
Correct answer: The caregiver moves the joint for the resident
In passive ROM, the caregiver performs all movement without the resident exerting muscle effort, typically used when the resident cannot move the joint independently.
Question 3: Active assistive range of motion (AAROM) is best described as:
- The resident provides some effort while the caregiver assists to complete the full movement (Correct answer)
- The resident performs all movement without any help
- The caregiver performs all movement with no resident participation
- Resistance is applied to challenge the resident's strength
Correct answer: The resident provides some effort while the caregiver assists to complete the full movement
AAROM involves the resident using available muscle strength while the caregiver provides additional assistance to achieve the full range of motion.
Question 4: A restorative aide is performing PROM on a resident's shoulder and feels sudden resistance. What should the aide do?
- Stop the movement immediately and report to the nurse (Correct answer)
- Push through the resistance to achieve full range
- Apply heat before continuing
- Document the resistance and continue the session
Correct answer: Stop the movement immediately and report to the nurse
Sudden resistance during ROM may indicate pain, spasm, or injury; the aide must stop immediately and report to the supervising nurse to prevent harm.
Question 5: What is a contracture?
- A permanent shortening of muscle and connective tissue causing limited joint movement (Correct answer)
- Temporary muscle soreness after exercise
- A fracture caused by ROM exercises
- Swelling of a joint due to overuse
Correct answer: A permanent shortening of muscle and connective tissue causing limited joint movement
A contracture is a permanent shortening of muscle, tendon, or soft tissue that restricts joint mobility, often caused by prolonged immobility.
Question 6: How many repetitions are typically recommended per joint during a standard ROM exercise session?
- 3 to 5 repetitions (Correct answer)
- 20 to 30 repetitions
- 1 repetition is sufficient
- 10 to 15 repetitions only if tolerated
Correct answer: 3 to 5 repetitions
Standard restorative ROM protocols typically recommend 3 to 5 repetitions per joint to maintain flexibility without causing fatigue or injury.
What is the purpose of range of motion (ROM) exercises in restorative care?