AIMS assessment
Also written as: AIMS — Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale
Standardized examination tool used to detect and monitor involuntary movement disorders in patients taking antipsychotic medications.
Full Definition
The Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale (AIMS) assessment is a standardized, 12-item examination tool used to detect and monitor tardive dyskinesia and other movement disorders in patients receiving antipsychotic medications. The assessment evaluates involuntary movements in facial and oral areas, extremities, and trunk, rating severity on a scale from 0 (none) to 4 (severe). Regular AIMS assessments are recommended for all patients on antipsychotic therapy as part of comprehensive monitoring for medication side effects.
Usage
Usage note: AIMS is both the scale name and the assessment process; specify 'AIMS assessment' when referring to the examination.
In Context
- "Quarterly AIMS assessments showed no evidence of tardive dyskinesia development." — Medication monitoring report
- "The nurse completed the AIMS assessment before the psychiatry appointment." — Clinical documentation