BEHAVIOR

The initial finding with regard to motor behavior is the loss of ability to perform familiar tasks (apraxia)
such as dressing or combing one’s hair, although actual motor abilities are intact.

The nurse will observe the client’s posture, eye contact, facial expression, and any unusual tics or
tremors. The nurse will also document observations and examples of behaviors to avoid personal
judgment or misinterpretation.

Making assessments of motor behavior include the following:

 Automatisms - repeated purposeless behaviors often indicative of anxiety, such as drumming

fingers, twisting locks of hair, or tapping the foot

 Psychomotor retardation - overall slowed movements

 Waxy flexibility - maintenance of posture or position over time even when it is awkward or
uncomfortable

Reference: Psychiatric – Mental Health Nursing, 5th edition, Lippincott Williams &Wilkins, page 142 and 452