Which statement correctly distinguishes active range of motion from passive range of motion?

• A. Active ROM is performed by the resident; passive ROM is performed by the caregiver moving the resident's joints.
• B. Active ROM requires equipment; passive ROM uses no equipment.
• C. Active ROM is for joints only; passive ROM is for muscles only.
• D. Both ROMs are performed by the caregiver.

Answer: (A)

Active range of motion means the resident moves their own joints with their own muscles, while passive range of motion means the caregiver moves the resident’s joints for them. This distinction matters because active ROM helps maintain muscle strength, control, and circulation since the person is actively using their muscles. Passive ROM keeps joints flexible and helps prevent stiffness and contractures when the person cannot move on their own, but it doesn’t build strength because the muscles aren’t actively worked. Equipment isn’t required for ROM in general, and ROM involves moving joints and their surrounding muscles, not just one or the other. It’s the resident who performs active ROM, whereas the caregiver typically performs passive ROM.