Active and Passive Exercises Nursing Notes | Types, Benefits & Care
Exercises – Active and Passive | Nursing Notes (GNM 1st Year)
By Emanuel Ind, RN ( ANMC, INC )
Introduction
Exercise is an important part of maintaining health, mobility and overall well-being. In nursing care, exercise plays a vital role in preventing complications such as muscle weakness, stiffness and poor circulation. Patients who are bedridden or recovering from illness may require assistance in performing exercises.
Active and passive exercises are commonly used in nursing practice to maintain muscle strength, joint flexibility and improve circulation. Nurses play a key role in encouraging and assisting patients to perform these exercises safely.
For GNM 1st year students, this topic is important for both theory exams and clinical practice.
What are Exercises?
Exercises are physical activities performed to maintain or improve strength, flexibility, circulation and overall health.
Types of Exercises
Active exercises
Passive exercises
Active Exercises
Definition
Active exercises are movements performed by the patient using their own muscle power without assistance.
Types
Free active exercise
Assisted active exercise
Resistive exercise
Examples
Walking
Stretching
Arm and leg movements
Deep breathing exercises
Benefits
Improves muscle strength
Enhances flexibility
Improves circulation
Prevents stiffness
Promotes independence
Indications
Patients able to move independently
Recovery phase
Nursing Responsibilities
Assess patient ability
Encourage participation
Monitor tolerance
Passive Exercises
Definition
Passive exercises are movements performed by the nurse without patient effort.
Types
Range of motion exercises
Joint movements
Examples
Moving limbs
Joint bending
Benefits
Prevent stiffness
Maintain muscle tone
Improve circulation
Prevent contractures
Indications
Unconscious patients
Paralysed patients
Nursing Responsibilities
Perform gently
Support joints
Observe response
Differences Between Active and Passive Exercises
| Feature | Active | Passive |
|---|---|---|
| Performed by | Patient | Nurse |
| Muscle effort | Required | Not required |
| Independence | High | Low |
Principles of Exercise
Start slowly
Maintain posture
Avoid overexertion
Provide rest
Complications of Lack of Exercise
Muscle weakness
Joint stiffness
Bed sores
Nursing Responsibilities
Assess patient
Plan exercises
Assist safely
Monitor response
Key Points for Exams
Active = patient performs
Passive = nurse performs
Prevent complications
Conclusion
Active and passive exercises are essential in nursing care. They improve mobility, circulation and recovery. Nurses must guide patients properly for safe practice.
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for educational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice.
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