Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN) Practice Exam

The abdominal reflex test is used to evaluate which spinal segments?

1. L1 and L2

2. T8, T9, and T10

3. C1 and C2

4. S1 and S2

The correct answer is: T8, T9, and T10

The abdominal reflex test evaluates spinal segments T8, T9, and T10, which are critical for the sensory and motor innervation of the abdominal muscles. When the abdomen is stroked, the contraction of the muscles indicates proper functioning of the lower thoracic spinal nerves. This reflex test is important in clinical settings to assess neurological function and can be particularly useful when evaluating potential spinal cord injuries or diseases affecting the thoracic region. The response should be a contraction of the abdominal muscles on the side of the stimulus, which confirms that these spinal segments are intact and functioning appropriately. While the other options refer to different spinal segment groups associated with various reflexes or functions, T8, T9, and T10 are specifically linked to the abdominal reflex, making this choice the correct answer.