In splinting an extremity, CMS stands for which three components?

• A. Circulation Movement Strength
• B. Circulation Motor-function Sensation
• C. Circulation Muscle Function
• D. Circulation Motor Strength

Answer: (B)

The test is focusing on neurovascular status during splinting, captured by three components: Circulation, Motor-function, and Sensation. Circulation checks blood flow to the injured area—look for color, warmth, capillary refill, and pulses if available. Motor-function assesses the ability to move the digits or joints beyond the injury, indicating intact nerves and muscles. Sensation checks whether the patient can feel light touch or pinprick, showing sensory nerve function.

These three together ensure that a splint isn’t compromising blood supply or nerve function. The other phrasings mix or omit essential parts: Movement or Muscle Function alone don’t guarantee sensory status, and Strength-focused wording omits sensation. So Circulation, Motor-function, and Sensation is the complete, standard assessment.