AIMS
Also written as: AIMS — Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale
A standardized rating scale used to monitor involuntary movement side effects from antipsychotic medications.
Full Definition
The Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale is a clinician-administered assessment tool used to detect and monitor tardive dyskinesia and other movement disorders associated with antipsychotic medication use. AIMS evaluations are typically conducted at baseline and regularly during antipsychotic treatment to ensure early detection of movement abnormalities. The scale assesses movements in facial and oral areas, extremities, and trunk, with specific scoring criteria for each body region.
Usage
Usage note: Always capitalize AIMS; distinguish from other movement assessment scales like SAS or Barnes scale.
In Context
- "AIMS assessment showed mild tongue movements consistent with early tardive dyskinesia." — Medication monitoring documentation
- "Baseline AIMS evaluation is required before initiating long-term antipsychotic treatment." — Clinical protocol manual