Arizona Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Practice Test

What should the nurse aide do if a resident's elbow is stiff during range of motion exercises?

1. Continue exercises but move onto another joint

2. Force the joint to bend

3. Stop all exercises immediately

4. Request assistance from a physical therapist

The correct answer is: Continue exercises but move onto another joint

Continuing exercises but moving onto another joint is the appropriate action because it ensures that the resident still receives some level of physical activity without causing discomfort or risking injury to the stiff elbow. During range of motion exercises, a nurse aide should always prioritize the resident's comfort and safety, recognizing that stiffness in a joint can be a common issue. By transitioning to another joint, the aide maintains the routine and helps promote overall mobility and circulation. It also allows the aide time to assess the situation further without putting excessive pressure on the stiff joint. If the stiffness persists or if the resident is in pain, it may be prudent to seek additional assistance later, such as from a physical therapist, to ensure a proper approach is taken for the resident’s condition. This choice balances the need for exercise with the necessity of caution when dealing with stiff joints.