A client is admitted to the medical unit following a CVA (stroke). The

A client is admitted to the medical unit following a CVA (stroke). There is evidence of left-sided hemiparesis and the nurse will be following up on range-of-motion and other exercises performed in physical therapy.

The nurse correctly teaches the client and family members which one of the following principles of range-of-motion exercises?
1. Flex the joint to the point of discomfort.
2. Work from proximal to distal joints.
3. Move the joints quickly.
4. Provide support for distal joints.

ANSWER

ANS: 1
Flexing the knees and keeping the feet wide apart provide a broad base of support and increase stability. The nurse should position himself or herself close to the client or object being lifted to minimize the force (10 pounds held at waist height close to the body is equal to 100 pounds held at arms’ length). Having the client or object close to the center of gravity also helps maintain balance. Twisting should be avoided because it increases the risk of back injury. The leg muscles should be used for lifting or moving. They are stronger, larger muscles capable of greater work without injury.