During Passive Range of Motion for the knee and ankle, what should the client report if pain is experienced?

• A. Continue without stopping
• B. Pain will be ignored
• C. If this hurts, please tell me
• D. Stop immediately if pain

Answer: (C)

During passive range of motion, safety hinges on the client’s ability to report discomfort so the caregiver can stop or adjust the movement. The best approach is to invite the client to speak up by saying, “If this hurts, please tell me.” This puts the client in control of their comfort, ensures pain is addressed promptly, and prevents forcing movement that could cause injury.

Continuing through pain ignores safety, and telling the client pain will be ignored or to stop only when told by someone else isn’t appropriate. If pain is reported, stop the movement, reassess, and notify the nurse as needed.