Re: Aims Test - When to do?

[Corey Ali]

Title: Aims Test - When to do?

I have no documentation, but it is my understanding that the APA recommends that the AIMs be done every six months for patients on anti-psychotics.  I don't believe there is anything in the Regs nor in the state operations manual that says that AIMs should be done whenever there is a change of dosage, or a change in meds.  Since the AIMs purpose is to identify T.D., why would you do one if you notice it?  Most likely to quantify the movements and monitor improvement if drug is D/C'd, or to prove extent of disability if it doesn't resolve, so doing it when you stop the meds is most likely a good idea from a defense point of view.  Still, I don't believe there is a requirement to do one, and I would have used my favorite, "I'm a dumb blonde" question:   "Well, I want to be certain I can correct this to the letter.  Could you show me in the regulations where it says which way we are to perform AIMs testing."    Corey ----- Original Message ----- From: Angie Palac To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Monday, March 22, 2004 8:07 PM Subject: Aims Test - When to do? Hi, How often are facilities doing Aims Tests on residents?  Surveyors visited Facility and stated that this test should be done when there is a change in dosage of the medication, or if there is a change in medication. There was also a resident who was displaying tardive dyskinesia and the surveyor stated that the Aims should have been done then, also.  The facility did not do the Aims test, but they did have the medication changed for this resident.  According to the facility’s policy, the Aims test is done every 6 months.  Any feedback would be greatly appreciated. Thanks again, Angie --- Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free. Checked by AVG anti-virus system (http://www.grisoft.com). Version: 6.0.614 / Virus Database: 393 - Release Date: 3/5/2004