A 73-year-old nurse presents with tremors and slowed movements. What is the most likely cause of her symptoms?

The symptoms described—a combination of tremors and slowed movements—are characteristic of Parkinson's disease, particularly in an older adult like the 73-year-old nurse presented in the scenario. Parkinson's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that typically manifests with motor symptoms such as resting tremor, bradykinesia (slowed movement), rigidity, and postural instability.

In this case, the presence of both tremors and slowed movements strongly points toward a diagnosis of Parkinson's disease, as these symptoms are primary features of the condition. Essential tremor primarily involves tremulous movements without the additional signs of bradykinesia or rigidity. Multiple sclerosis can cause a variety of neurological symptoms, but it more commonly presents with distinct attacks and other neurological deficits rather than the combination of symptoms seen here. Alzheimer's disease, on the other hand, is primarily characterized by cognitive decline and memory loss, not the motor symptoms highlighted in the question.

Therefore, considering the age of the patient and the specific symptoms, Parkinson's disease is the most likely cause of the tremors and slowed movements experienced by the nurse.