Which instrument is specifically used to check reflexes?

The instrument specifically used to check reflexes is the percussion hammer. This tool is designed to elicit a response from the body's reflexes by tapping on specific tendons or muscles, allowing healthcare providers to assess the integrity of the nervous system as well as the functioning of various reflex arcs. During a neurological examination, the percussion hammer helps to determine if reflexes are present and functioning appropriately, indicating normal or abnormal nervous system activity.

The other instruments have different primary functions: a stethoscope is used to listen to internal sounds of the body, such as heartbeats and lung sounds; a tuning fork is typically used for auditory assessments and testing vibratory sensation; and a sphygmomanometer is employed to measure blood pressure. Each of these tools serves important roles in medical assessments but is not specifically designed for evaluating reflex responses like the percussion hammer is.