A patient with a RASS score of -5 to -4 would require which level of physical therapy intervention?

A patient with a RASS score of -5 to -4 would require which level of physical therapy intervention?

• A. PROM
• B. Active range of motion with resistance
• C. ADLs training
• D. Ambulation

Answer: (A)

With a RASS score of -5 to -4, the patient is deeply sedated and largely unresponsive to voice. In this state, active participation in therapy isn’t possible, so the most appropriate intervention is passive range of motion. Passive ROM helps maintain joint mobility and prevent contractures without requiring muscle activation or patient cooperation. Active ROM with resistance would need patient effort and strength, which aren’t feasible here. ADLs training and ambulation require higher levels of arousal and functional capability, which are not present at this sedation level. As sedation is lighter and the patient becomes more alert, therapy can progress to more active interventions as appropriate.

With a RASS score of -5 to -4, the patient is deeply sedated and largely unresponsive to voice. In this state, active participation in therapy isn’t possible, so the most appropriate intervention is passive range of motion. Passive ROM helps maintain joint mobility and prevent contractures without requiring muscle activation or patient cooperation.

Active ROM with resistance would need patient effort and strength, which aren’t feasible here. ADLs training and ambulation require higher levels of arousal and functional capability, which are not present at this sedation level. As sedation is lighter and the patient becomes more alert, therapy can progress to more active interventions as appropriate.