Review System for Neurological Questions Related

Review Review System for Neurological Questions related questions and content

Which technique does the nurse use to test the triceps reflex?

  • A. Holds the knee in a slightly flexed position while he or she strokes the end of the foot with a dull object
  • B. Hold the patient's relaxed forearm with the hand slightly pronated while striking the appropriate tendon with a reflex hammer
  • C. Holds the patient's constricted arm with elbow flexed at a 90 degree angle, places a thumb over the elbow, and strikes the appropriate tendon
  • D. Holds the patient's relaxed arm with elbow flexed at a 90 degree angle in one hand and strikes the appropriate tendon just above the elbow with either end of the reflex hammer
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: To test the triceps reflex, the nurse holds the patient's relaxed arm with the elbow flexed at a 90-degree angle and strikes the triceps tendon just above the elbow with a reflex hammer. This assesses the C7-C8 nerve roots.