Advanced Patient Assessment Practice Exam

Which reflex test is indicative of potential neurological impairment?

1. Patellar reflex

2. Babinski sign

3. Crossed extensor reflex

4. Deep tendon reflex

The correct answer is: Babinski sign

The Babinski sign is a reflex test that can indicate potential neurological impairment, particularly in the central nervous system and its pathways. When the sole of the foot is stroked, a normal response in adults is to curl the toes inward. However, an abnormal response, where the big toe extends upward and the other toes fan out, is known as the Babinski sign. This sign is often associated with damage to the corticospinal tract and can suggest neurological issues, such as multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injuries, or other conditions affecting the brain or spinal cord. In infants, a positive Babinski reflex is considered normal up until the age of about 2 years, as their nervous systems are still developing. However, persistence of this reflex beyond infancy in older children and adults often points to a pathological condition, making it a critical assessment tool for healthcare providers assessing neurological function. Compared to the other options, while reflexes like the patellar reflex or deep tendon reflex are important for assessing peripheral nervous system function and muscle strength and can indicate some neurological conditions, they are not as specifically indicative of central nervous system issues as the Babinski sign. The crossed extensor reflex is also a normal reflex and generally evaluated during a neurological exam but is not as definitive