Skip to content
CNA SimulatorFree practice test

Passive range of motion: shoulder, elbow and wrist: CNA skills test steps

Updated · Reviewed against official sources

Support the limb above and below each joint, move it slowly and gently through its normal motions the number of times directed, and stop if the resident reports pain or you feel resistance. Ask about pain during the exercise and never force a joint.

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 arm at the elbow and wrist throughout the exercises.
  8. 8Shoulder: raise the straight arm forward and up toward the head, then return it to the side (flexion and extension).
  9. 9Shoulder: move the straight arm away from the body to the side and back (abduction and adduction).
  10. 10Elbow: bend the elbow so the hand moves toward the shoulder, then straighten it.
  11. 11Wrist: bend the hand down, then back, supporting the joint.
  12. 12Repeat each motion the number of times directed (your handbook may specify a minimum).
  13. 13Key step: Move each joint slowly and gently; do not force a joint beyond the point of resistance or pain.
  14. 14Key step: Ask the resident about discomfort and watch their face during the exercises.
  15. 15Key step: Return the bed to its lowest position and make sure the wheels are locked.
  16. 16Key step: Place the call light and personal items within the resident's reach.
  17. 17Key step: Open the privacy curtain, perform hand hygiene, and report anything unusual to the nurse.

Common mistakes

  • Not supporting the joint above and below.
  • Moving too fast or with jerky motions.
  • Forcing a joint past resistance.
  • Never asking the resident about pain.

Quick answers

What is passive range of motion?
The caregiver moves the resident's joints for them because the resident cannot do it independently.
What do I do if the resident says it hurts?
Stop the motion at that point and report the pain to the nurse.

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.

Take the free 20-question test

Related

Sources

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