Who performs active range of motion exercises?

• A. The nurse
• B. A caregiver
• C. The patient
• D. The therapist

Answer: (D)

Active range of motion is the patient moving a joint using their own muscles. The movement is done by the patient themselves, while a nurse, caregiver, or therapist may demonstrate, teach, or supervise and ensure it’s done safely, but they do not perform the motion for the patient during active ROM. This distinction helps the patient build and maintain muscle strength, joint flexibility, and circulation. If the patient cannot move the joint on their own, passive range of motion is used, where someone else moves the joint, or active-assisted ROM, where the patient moves with some help.