The nurse is caring for a patient who has had a stroke causing total paralysis of the right side. To help maintain joint function and minimize the disability from contractures, passive ROM will be initiated. When should the nurse begin this therapy?

A) After the acute phase of the disease has passed
B) As soon as the ability to move is lost
C) Once the patient enters the rehab unit
D) When the patient requests it

Passive ROM

Range of Motion exercises where muscles are stretched and joints are moved without the patient's effort, often performed by a therapist.

Acute Phase

A period during an illness or disease characterized by sudden onset and severe symptoms, requiring immediate medical attention.

Contractures

Permanent tightening of muscles, tendons, skin, or other tissues, leading to decreased range of motion and flexibility, often a result of injury or prolonged immobility.