ATI Fundamentals Notes
Mobility and Immobility · Mobility is the freedom of purposeful movement o Signs of a functional musculoskeletal system
· Immobility is the lack of freedom and purposeful movement o Sign of a musculoskeletal problem
▪ Risk for physiological problems such as falls and stiffness ▪ Risk for psychosocial problems o Can cause increased pressure on skin ▪ Reddened areas, irritated skin ▪ Extreme cases can be ischemia (lack of circulation and
inadequate blood supply)
· Immobility can be: o Temporary – following a surgery o Permanent – paralyzing o Sudden onset – an immediate fracture o Slow onset – disease process (i.e., multiple sclerosis)
· Assessment in mobility can be o ROM
o Gait o Activity tolerance o Poster while sitting, standing, and lying
· Assistive devices o Can be on a 1-4 point stance ▪ Assessed by how many points of contact are on the ground
at once (i.e., crutches with one leg is 3 points of contact) o Cane should be used on strong side
· Passive ROM
o Performed by nurse or physical therapist o Moved to point of slight resistance only o Each motion is repeated 3-5 times
Normal Vital Signs · Blood pressure o 90/60 -120/80 Normal range ▪ Lower is hypotensive (i.e., 80/50) ▪ Higher is hypertensive (i.e., 140/90)