A client presents with decreased flexion of the right elbow and reports significant pain when performing activities involving this joint. What is the most appropriate nursing action to facilitate the assessment of this client's range of motion?

Apply a heat pack to the elbow prior to assessment to relax the muscles

Request the client to perform active ROMs independently without assistance

Cradle the client's joint and perform passive ROM exercises gently to assess movement

Instruct the client to stretch the arm and attempt to lift weights