What it means
A set of checks that the nerves and blood vessels of an arm or leg are working. The nurse checks color, temperature, capillary refill and pulses below the injury, and asks about numbness, tingling and pain, and whether the client can move the fingers or toes. The other side is checked for comparison. Charting may call it a CMS or CSM check (circulation, movement, sensation).
For the nurse
Do checks as often as ordered, often every hour at first after a cast or surgery. Report right away pain that is getting worse or not relieved by medicine, pain on passive stretch, numbness, a cold or pale limb, or a weak pulse.
In a chart
"Left foot warm, pink, cap refill under 3 seconds, pedal pulse 2+, moves toes, denies numbness."
At a glance
| Also written | neurovascular checks, neurovascular assessment, CMS check, CSM check |
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Related terms
perfusion
The flow of blood through the body's tissues, bringing them oxygen and nutrients.
numbness
Loss or reduction of feeling in a part of the body.
compartment syndrome
A buildup of pressure inside a closed group of muscles that cuts off their blood supply.