Psychomotor Agitation
Observable, purposeless physical restlessness or increased motor activity—such as pacing, hand-wringing, or pressured speech—associated with psychological distress.
Full Definition
Psychomotor agitation is documented in the mental status examination and progress notes as a behavioral sign rather than a self-reported symptom. It is associated with major depressive disorder (particularly melancholic subtype), bipolar disorder (manic or mixed states), anxiety disorders, and medication side effects such as akathisia. Editors should distinguish it from 'psychomotor retardation,' its clinical antonym. In documentation, editors must also note that agitation is an observable finding ('clinician observed') rather than a reported experience; notes that describe agitation solely based on patient report should be flagged. The compound 'psychomotor' is one word, not hyphenated.
Usage
Usage note: Write as one word: 'psychomotor,' not 'psycho-motor.' This is an observable sign, not a patient-reported symptom. Distinguish from akathisia, which is subjective inner restlessness with motor features.
In Context
- "The attending psychiatrist documented psychomotor agitation, noting that the patient paced continuously throughout the 45-minute session and was unable to remain seated." — Inpatient progress note
- "Note that 'psychomotor' is written as one unhyphenated word in all clinical contexts; verify this in all documents on submission." — Style sheet for psychiatric documentation