Question

The nurse counsels the immobilized patient in regard to the prevention of muscle atrophy and contractures. What will the nurse be sure to include when counseling this patient?

a. Encouraging the patient to remain in a fixed position for extended periods
b. Performing passive range of motion exercises regularly
c. Discouraging any attempt at movement to prevent injury
d. Promoting active movements and exercises within the patient's capabilities

Answer 1

To prevent muscle atrophy and contractures in immobilized patients, nurses should advise regular passive range of motion exercises and promote active movements within patient capabilities.

Step-by-step explanation:

When counseling an immobilized patient on the prevention of muscle atrophy and contractures, a nurse should include performing passive range of motion exercises regularly, and promoting active movements and exercises within the patient's capabilities. Physiotherapists assess the functionality of impaired muscles, and based on assessments, create appropriate physical therapy plans, which may include heat packs, therapeutic exercises, icing, and potentially electrical stimulation if movement is not possible. These exercises help restore muscle function, maintain muscle mass, and minimize the effects of age-related atrophy.