While assisting the client with a bath, the nurse encourages full rang

While assisting the client with a bath, the nurse encourages full range of motion in all the client’s joints. Which activity would best support range of motion in the hand and arm?

1. Give the client a washcloth to wash the face.
2. Move the wash basin farther toward the foot of the bed so the client must reach for it.
3. Have the client brush the hair and teeth.
4. Move each of the client’s hand and arm joints through passive range of motion.

ANSWER

Correct Answer: 3
Rationale 1: This activity does not utilize all of the major joints in the hands and arms.
Rationale 2: The wash basin should be close to the client to prevent overreaching and possible falls.
Rationale 3: Brushing the hair and teeth includes more of the joints of the hands and the arms than does washing the face.
Rationale 4: Passive range of motion is a second best choice after normal use of the joints.