CNS v CMS

[IMustBeCrazy]

Alright....I'm confused! Time to ask the experts!

I have heard instructors use the term "CNS Check" and "CMS Check". What exactly is the difference? Am I misunderstanding the term? If they are separate, how do these checks differ? This has actually been bugging me for awhile but I thought I would have found it in a textbook by now. I have also tried searching on the internet for "CMS Check" but came up with nothing, go figure. :imbar

Thanks in advance!

[suzanne4, RN]

Circulation, Motor, Sensory

Are you doing a rotation on an orthopedic floor by any chance? These are terms used quite often there. Circulation check to the toes or fingers by capillary refill, etc. Movement of fingers and/or toes. Is sensation intact?

Hope that this helps................... :balloons:

[Tweety, BSN, RN]

Now I'm circious as to what CNS check means. Is it a neurovascaular check? What does it mean?

I agree CMS is circulation, movement and sensation, very common in ortho. :)

[elkpark]

I'm used to "CNS" check being another term for neuro checks (central nervous system), and "CMS" being circulation, motor function, sensation (ortho)