Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Practice Exam

What is the term for the inability to perform motor activities despite having intact motor function?

1. Sundowning

2. Aphasia

3. Ataxia

4. Apraxia

The correct answer is: Apraxia

The correct term for the inability to perform motor activities despite having intact motor function is apraxia. Apraxia refers to a neurological condition where an individual is unable to execute purposeful movements or tasks, even though they have the physical ability and strength to do so. This condition usually arises from brain damage, particularly in areas responsible for planning and coordinating movement. For instance, a person with apraxia may struggle to perform tasks like brushing their hair or waving goodbye, even though they understand the instructions and can move their limbs. It highlights a disconnect between the intent and the execution of the movement. Other options such as sundowning refer to a phenomenon often observed in dementia patients, characterized by increased confusion and agitation during the late afternoon or evening. Aphasia is a language disorder resulting from brain damage, impacting the ability to communicate effectively, both in speaking and understanding language. Ataxia involves a lack of muscle coordination during voluntary movements, which typically presents as unsteady gait or difficulty with fine motor tasks but does not necessarily indicate an understanding of how to perform the movements, unlike apraxia. Thus, apraxia specifically addresses the inability to carry out motor functions while having intact motor capabilities.