PN Adult Medical Surgical Practice Exam

What should a nurse include when teaching about the use of a continuous passive motion (CPM) machine?

1. "Your knee is flexed and extended as prescribed by your provider."

2. "To use the machine, you must pedal as if you are riding a bike."

3. "You might have the head of the bed elevated to 45 degrees while using this machine."

4. "The machine is padded with sheep skin."

The correct answer is: "Your knee is flexed and extended as prescribed by your provider."

When teaching about the use of a continuous passive motion (CPM) machine, it's crucial to emphasize that the device is designed to flex and extend the knee according to the specific parameters set by the healthcare provider. This ensures that the joint can begin to regain its range of motion safely and effectively after surgery or injury. The provider will determine the appropriate angles and speed of movement for the machine, tailored to the patient’s needs and recovery progress. By focusing on the prescribed flexion and extension of the knee, the nurse helps the patient understand that the CPM machine is an important part of their rehabilitation process. It allows for passive movement, which is essential for maintaining joint health and promoting healing without placing undue stress on the surgical site or injured area. In contrast, the other options lack accuracy or relevance to the primary purpose of the CPM machine. For instance, pedaling the machine as if riding a bike isn't how the device operates, as it does not require active participation from the user. Likewise, the machine's settings and use do not typically mandate specific bed elevation, and while padding is generally for comfort, it is not a primary teaching point in explaining the functionality of the CPM machine.