Final answer:
The percussion reflex hammer is used to test for reflexes in the nervous system by tapping tendons to assess involuntary muscle responses, which aids in diagnosing neurological health.
Step-by-step explanation:
To test for reflexes in the nervous system. This medical instrument is used by healthcare professionals for neurologic examinations to assess reflexes and possible defects in the nervous system.
When using the reflex hammer, the provider taps a tendon, usually near a joint, which sends a signal through the nervous system to the corresponding muscle. If the reflex pathway is intact, the muscle will contract involuntarily. This reaction is an important diagnostic tool because it can provide information about the integrity and function of the nervous system. Reflex tests are part of routine physical and neurological exams to evaluate the health of the individual and can help to identify conditions such as nerve damage or neurological disorders.