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Passive range of motion: hip, knee and ankle: CNA skills test steps

Updated · Reviewed against official sources

Support the leg at the knee and ankle, move the hip, knee and ankle slowly through their normal motions the number of times directed, and stop at any resistance or pain. Ask the resident about discomfort throughout.

Your state's nurse aide candidate handbook is the authority on exam format, skills lists and scoring. This page explains the general picture and links the official sources.

Steps

KEYmarks 8 steps that candidate handbooks commonly treat as critical. Missing a critical step usually fails the skill.

  1. 1Knock, introduce yourself by name and title, and greet the resident by name.
  2. 2Identify the resident (for example, check the name band or ask the resident to state their name) per facility policy.
  3. 3Explain the procedure in simple words and ask the resident to help as much as they are able.
  4. 4Key step: Provide privacy: close the door and pull the curtain.
  5. 5Key step: Perform hand hygiene before touching the resident.
  6. 6Raise the bed to a comfortable working height, lock the wheels and position the resident on their back.
  7. 7Key step: Support the leg under the knee and the ankle throughout the exercises.
  8. 8Hip: move the straight leg away from the body to the side and back toward the midline (abduction and adduction).
  9. 9Hip and knee: bend the knee and hip toward the chest, then straighten the leg back onto the bed.
  10. 10Ankle: gently push the foot up toward the head, then point it down.
  11. 11Repeat each motion the number of times directed.
  12. 12Key step: Move slowly and gently, never forcing a joint past resistance or pain.
  13. 13Key step: Ask the resident about discomfort during the exercises.
  14. 14Key step: Return the bed to its lowest position and make sure the wheels are locked.
  15. 15Key step: Place the call light and personal items within the resident's reach.
  16. 16Key step: Open the privacy curtain, perform hand hygiene, and report anything unusual to the nurse.

Common mistakes

  • Lifting the leg without supporting the knee and ankle.
  • Crossing the leg far over the other leg when moving it toward the midline.
  • Forcing motion past resistance.
  • Skipping repetitions.

Quick answers

Why do range-of-motion exercises?
They help prevent contractures and stiffness and maintain circulation in residents who move very little.
How many times do I repeat each motion?
As many times as the care plan or your evaluator directs. Your handbook may list a minimum.

What to do next

Skills and the written test are scored separately, and you must pass both. Check your written readiness in about 15 minutes.

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Related

Sources

Checked: . Rules, fees and vendors change — always confirm with your state's official page and candidate handbook.