During observation, the client trembles when reaching for a glass of water. Which term best describes this tremor?

During observation, the client trembles when reaching for a glass of water. Which term best describes this tremor?

• A. Muscle flaccidity
• B. Intention tremor
• C. Transient ischemic attack
• D. Sensory dysfunction

Answer: (B)

Intention tremor is the best fit. It shows up during purposeful movement and tends to worsen as the limb nears the target, which is exactly what happens when reaching for a glass of water—the hand trembles more as you approach the object. This pattern points to cerebellar involvement, since the cerebellum coordinates precise, smooth movements and errors become evident at the endpoint of a movement. It’s not a tremor that’s present at rest, and it’s not due to muscle weakness, sensory loss, or an acute vascular event like a transient ischemic attack.

Intention tremor is the best fit. It shows up during purposeful movement and tends to worsen as the limb nears the target, which is exactly what happens when reaching for a glass of water—the hand trembles more as you approach the object. This pattern points to cerebellar involvement, since the cerebellum coordinates precise, smooth movements and errors become evident at the endpoint of a movement. It’s not a tremor that’s present at rest, and it’s not due to muscle weakness, sensory loss, or an acute vascular event like a transient ischemic attack.