During deep tendon reflex testing, a grade of 1+ is observed. This finding most likely indicates which of the following?

During deep tendon reflex testing, a grade of 1+ is observed. This finding most likely indicates which of the following?

• A. 0
• B. 2+
• C. 1+
• D. 3+

Answer: (C)

Interpreting deep tendon reflex grading is about how strong the reflex response is compared with normal. Deep tendon reflexes are scored on a scale from absent to hyperactive. A diminished reflex means the response is weaker than normal but still present, which is the lowest nonzero end of the scale. Normal reflexes sit in the middle, while hyperactive reflexes are exaggerated. In this scenario, the reflex is reduced but not absent, so the finding aligns with a diminished, hypoactive response. Absent would be no response at all, normal would be an expected brisk response, and hyperactive would be stronger than normal.

Interpreting deep tendon reflex grading is about how strong the reflex response is compared with normal. Deep tendon reflexes are scored on a scale from absent to hyperactive. A diminished reflex means the response is weaker than normal but still present, which is the lowest nonzero end of the scale. Normal reflexes sit in the middle, while hyperactive reflexes are exaggerated. In this scenario, the reflex is reduced but not absent, so the finding aligns with a diminished, hypoactive response. Absent would be no response at all, normal would be an expected brisk response, and hyperactive would be stronger than normal.