A nurse is working with an immobile client and doing passive range-of-motion (ROM) exercises on his legs. The client states the exercise is too painful and does not want to continue. The nurse should
ask the client to first rate the pain level on a scale of 0 – 10.
ask the provider to order PRN pain medication to be given before exercise.
continue the exercise and encourage the client to work through any pain.
stop the exercise if the client complains of pain.
Number 4 is correct.
Rationale: If a client experiences pain during passive ROM exercises, the nurse should stop and not force the joint movement; the client could become injured. The nurse would then assess the client’s pain level and document. The physician could then make a decision on the future plan of care and whether modifications, medications, or a referral to physical therapy is appropriate.
