What distinguishes active Range of Motion (ROM) from passive ROM?

Active Range of Motion (ROM) is defined as the movement of joints performed by the resident themselves without any assistance. This type of motion is important for maintaining flexibility and preventing stiffness in joints because it encourages the body's natural capability to engage in movement. When residents perform active ROM exercises, they are engaging their own muscles to achieve mobility, which can provide exercise benefits and promote independence.

In contrast, passive ROM is when another person provides the movement for the resident, which may be necessary for those who cannot move their own limbs due to illness, injury, or physical limitations. This distinction is crucial for understanding how various types of ROM contribute to a patient's mobility and overall health status.

For the other options, active ROM indeed requires the individual to move independently, which is why option B is the correct choice. The other responses misinterpret the nature of active ROM; it does involve joint movement and is not limited to specific joints only.