What is passive range of motion (PROM)?

Passive range of motion (PROM) refers specifically to the exercises that a healthcare professional or caregiver performs for a resident without any assistance or effort from the resident themselves. This practice is essential for maintaining joint flexibility, preventing stiffness, and improving circulation, particularly for individuals who may be unable to move their limbs on their own due to illness, injury, or a lack of strength.

In PROM, the caregiver gently moves the joints through their full range of motion, which helps to keep tissues healthy and can also improve the resident's overall comfort and wellbeing. This technique is particularly beneficial for individuals who are bedridden or have limited mobility.

Other options do not accurately describe PROM. For example, exercises done by the resident to strengthen muscles would imply active participation, which is not the case in PROM. Similarly, muscle relaxation techniques performed by staff typically do not involve joint movements characteristic of PROM. Lastly, while stretching exercises are important in rehabilitation and therapy, PROM specifically refers to caregiver-assisted movements rather than general exercises recommended for all patients.