Psychomotor retardation involves a slowing down of thought and a reduction of physical movements in an individual.
It can cause a visible slowing of physical and emotional reactions, including speech and affect.
[3] Particularly in an inpatient setting, psychomotor retardation may require increased nursing care to ensure adequate food and fluid intake and sufficient personal care.
Informed consent for treatment is more difficult to achieve in the presence of this condition.
[citation needed] Examples of psychomotor retardation include the following:[5] In schizophrenia, activity level may vary from psychomotor retardation to agitation; the patient experiences periods of listlessness and may be unresponsive, and at the next moment be active and energetic.