When the patella is tapped with a reflex hammer, a patient demonstrates a sluggish response. The nurse suspects that this response may be cause by which disorder?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A sluggish response to the patellar reflex test can be caused by peripheral nerve damage, muscle impairment, or a neurotransmitter deficiency. Each of these conditions can affect the reflex arc or the muscles' ability to contract in response to the stimulus.

When the Patella Is Tapped with a Reflex Hammer, a Patient