Certified Rehabilitation Registered Nurse (CRRN) Practice Exam

What is the primary purpose of the bridging technique?

1. Avoid pressure on boney prominences

2. Enhance mobility

3. Strengthen muscle groups

4. Facilitate communication

The correct answer is: Avoid pressure on boney prominences

The primary purpose of the bridging technique centers around avoiding pressure on bony prominences. By teaching patients to perform bridging, rehabilitation nurses promote movement that helps shift weight away from areas susceptible to pressure ulcers. The technique encourages patients, especially those with limited mobility, to elevate their pelvis and lower torso off the surface they are resting on, which alleviates pressure on the buttocks and other bony areas. This movement not only helps in minimizing the risk of skin breakdown caused by prolonged pressure but also serves as a fundamental exercise to promote overall mobility. While enhancing mobility and strengthening muscle groups are important goals within rehabilitation, in the case of the bridging technique, the primary focus is on protecting vulnerable areas of the body from pressure injuries. Facilitation of communication may play a role in overall patient-centric care but is not related to the bridging technique itself.