Home Health Aide On The Go In Service Lessons Vol 12 Issue 8 Rom And Contracture Prevention

Contractures are a common complication of neurological and musculoskeletal conditions and are characterized by a reduction in joint mobility. No muscle is completely relaxed while the body is in a conscious or non-paralyzed state. Muscle tone keeps the bones in place and allows us to maintain posture. When there is a shortening of a muscle or tendon, this results in moderate to severe dysfunction in ROM it is called a contracture. The most common contractures are found in the ankle/foot, hip, knee, elbow, and wrist/hand/finger areas of the body. LESSON OBJECTIVES After completion of this program, the home health aide will be able to: Define a contracture Describe the four different types of joints Differentiate between the different types of range of motion (ROM) Identify three injuries or diseases that predispose patients to contractures Identify the general guidelines for ROM exercises Contents of this lesson: A clearly written fact sheet A 10-question post-test to measure understanding of the subject matter An answer sheet with a place for the instructor's comments and signature An illustrative, homecare-specific case study Suggested supplemental learning activities An attendance log and certificate of completion