Florida Nursing Assistant Competency Pracrice Exam

What type of exercises are crucial to prevent contractures?

1. Range of Motion (ROM) exercises

2. Strength training exercises

3. Endurance exercises

4. Static stretching exercises

The correct answer is: Range of Motion (ROM) exercises

Range of motion (ROM) exercises are specifically designed to maintain or improve the flexibility and mobility of a joint. By actively moving the joints through their full range, these exercises help prevent contractures, which are the permanent shortening of muscles, tendons, or ligaments that can occur when a joint is immobilized for a period of time. Regularly practicing ROM exercises encourages blood circulation, reduces stiffness, and keeps tissues healthy, effectively preventing the development of contractures. Strength training exercises, while beneficial for building muscle and enhancing stability, are not primarily focused on maintaining joint flexibility. Endurance exercises are aimed at improving cardiovascular fitness and stamina rather than specifically targeting joint range. Static stretching, though helpful for flexibility, does not provide the dynamic movement essential for preventing contracture formation as effectively as ROM exercises do. Overall, engaging in regular ROM exercises is crucial in a healthcare context to ensure that patients maintain functional mobility and minimize the risk of developing contractures.