How should a nursing assistant work when helping a resident with range of motion exercises?

When assisting a resident with range of motion exercises, beginning at the shoulders and working down is beneficial because it allows for a more organized and systematic approach to the exercises. Starting with the shoulders, which are large joints, can help establish a rhythm and warmth in the muscles, making the resident more comfortable as you progress down the body. This method also ensures that each section of the body receives equal attention and that you can observe how the resident is responding to the movements, adjusting your technique as necessary.

Furthermore, working from top to bottom helps maintain engagement and awareness in the resident, focusing on increasing overall mobility throughout the body rather than isolating specific areas too early in the process. It is important to maintain a gentle and supportive manner throughout the exercises and to encourage the resident to communicate any discomfort or limitations they may be experiencing.