The newly admitted client has contractures of both lower extremities.

The newly admitted client has contractures of both lower extremities. What nursing intervention should be included in this client’s plan of care?

1. Frequent position changes to reverse the contractures
2. Exercises to strengthen flexor muscles
3. Range-of-motion exercises to prevent worsening of contractures
4. Weight-bearing activities to stimulate joint relaxation

ANSWER

Correct Answer: 3
Rationale 1: Frequent position changes will not reverse contractures.
Rationale 2: The contracture occurs because the flexor muscles are stronger than the extensor muscles. This imbalance in strength pulls the inactive joint into a flexed position, and a permanent shortening of the muscle occurs.
Rationale 3: Once contractures occur they are irreversible except by surgical intervention. The best nursing intervention is to keep the contractures from getting tighter (or worse) by providing range-of-motion exercises.
Rationale 4: Weight-bearing activities will not reverse contractures.