How often should range of motion (ROM) exercises be performed for a patient with a protective device?

Performing range of motion (ROM) exercises every two hours for a patient with a protective device is important for several reasons. Firstly, frequent ROM exercises can help prevent stiffness and maintain joint flexibility, which is crucial for patients who may be immobilized or have limited movement due to their protective devices. This regular exercise helps to promote circulation, which can prevent complications such as blood clots or pressure sores.

Additionally, executing these exercises on a consistent schedule—like every two hours—ensures that the patient retains as much mobility as possible, which can contribute to overall recovery and comfort. With protective devices often restricting movement, scheduling ROM exercises periodically throughout the day helps to offset some of the adverse effects of prolonged immobility. This frequency strikes a balance, ensuring that the muscles and joints are regularly engaged without being overly taxing for either the caregiver or the patient.

In contrast, performing these exercises only once a day may not be sufficient to maintain joint health and flexibility. Exercising every hour may be excessive, leading to potential fatigue or discomfort for the patient. Finally, relying solely on the patient’s requests would not guarantee the necessary routine needed for proper care, particularly if the patient is not fully aware of their need for these exercises or if they lack the ability