Range of Motion Exercises: How to Perform Passive ROM Safely and Correctly
Passive range of motion exercises help move a person’s joints through their normal motions when they cannot do so independently. To perform them safely, wash your hands, explain the care, raise the bed to a safe working height, protect the person’s privacy, and support each limb throughout the movement. Exercises should be done gently and smoothly, working through the upper body and then the lower body, including the shoulder, elbow, forearm, wrist, thumb, fingers, hip, knee, ankle, and toes. Caregivers should avoid forcing movement, moving too quickly, or failing to support the joint. After the exercises, the person should be covered, repositioned comfortably, the bed lowered, the call light placed within reach, and hand hygiene and documentation completed.