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Basic Nursing Skills

Modified Passive Range of Motion

Support the resident's lower leg with one hand cupped under the knee and the other under the heel/ankle. Gently move the knee through flexion and extension, then the ankle through circular motion. Stop immediately if the resident reports pain.

5-10 minutes per limb•8 steps•2 critical
One hand under the knee, one under the heel. Move slowly. Stop at pain.

Why this matters

One hand under the knee, one under the heel. Move slowly. Stop at pain.

Quick tips

  • Both hands stay on the leg: one at the knee, one at the ankle or foot. Never let the leg hang unsupported.
  • Move slowly and smoothly through the full range the joint moves easily; never force a joint.
  • At least three full repetitions at each joint. Count them yourself.

Common mistakes

  • Doing the knee or ankle fewer than 3 times. Both movements are critical and the count is part of the step.
  • Moving the leg from the foot alone, leaving the knee unsupported. The leg's weight pulls on the joint.
  • Moving in jerks or going past the point where the joint moves easily. The step requires gentle, slow, smooth movement.
  • Carrying on after the client says it hurts. The checklist says to stop.