What does the acronym PMS stand for when assessing limbs?

The acronym PMS stands for Pulse, Movement, and Sensation when assessing limbs in emergency medical situations. This assessment is crucial for evaluating the neurovascular status of a patient's extremities.

When evaluating a limb, checking for pulse ensures that blood circulation is present and functioning properly. The movement assessment helps determine if the nerves and muscles are intact and functioning, indicating that the patient can move the limb as required. Sensation checks the patient's ability to feel touch, pain, or temperature in the limb, which is important in assessing nerve function.

In contexts such as trauma care or during a physical examination after a potential injury, the PMS assessment provides vital information about the circulation and neurological status affecting the limb, guiding further treatment decisions.