AIMS
Pronunciation: AIMS
Also written as: AIMS — Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale
Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale, a standardized rating scale used to monitor for tardive dyskinesia in patients taking antipsychotic medications.
Full Definition
The Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale (AIMS) is a standardized 12-item rating scale used to detect and monitor tardive dyskinesia and other abnormal involuntary movements in patients receiving antipsychotic medications. The scale evaluates facial and oral movements, extremity movements, and trunk movements, with each item rated on a 0-4 severity scale. AIMS assessments should be performed at baseline before starting antipsychotic treatment and then regularly during treatment, typically every 6-12 months or more frequently if abnormal movements are detected. The scale provides objective documentation of movement disorders and helps guide treatment decisions regarding antipsychotic therapy.
Usage
Usage note: Always written as AIMS in capital letters; refers to both the scale and the assessment process.
In Context
- "Annual AIMS assessments are required for all patients on long-term antipsychotic therapy." — clinical monitoring protocol
- "The AIMS score increased, indicating possible early tardive dyskinesia." — movement disorder evaluation