Which device is primarily used to measure blood pressure?

Which device is primarily used to measure blood pressure?

• A. Sphygmomanometer
• B. Stethoscope
• C. Pulse oximeter
• D. Thermometer

Answer: (A)

The sphygmomanometer is the primary device used to measure blood pressure. This instrument typically consists of an inflatable cuff that is placed around the upper arm and a pressure gauge, which displays the pressure readings. When the cuff is inflated, it exerts pressure on the artery, temporarily stopping blood flow. As the cuff is gradually deflated, the gauge measures the pressure at which blood begins to flow through the artery again, which corresponds to the systolic pressure. Further deflation allows the continuous measurement of the pressure at which blood flow is fully restored, corresponding to diastolic pressure. This tool is critical for assessing cardiovascular health, as it helps detect conditions such as hypertension, which can lead to serious health issues if left untreated. Other devices mentioned, like the stethoscope, are used to listen to heart and lung sounds but do not measure blood pressure directly. A pulse oximeter measures oxygen saturation in the blood, and a thermometer measures body temperature, neither of which are related to blood pressure assessment.

The sphygmomanometer is the primary device used to measure blood pressure. This instrument typically consists of an inflatable cuff that is placed around the upper arm and a pressure gauge, which displays the pressure readings. When the cuff is inflated, it exerts pressure on the artery, temporarily stopping blood flow. As the cuff is gradually deflated, the gauge measures the pressure at which blood begins to flow through the artery again, which corresponds to the systolic pressure. Further deflation allows the continuous measurement of the pressure at which blood flow is fully restored, corresponding to diastolic pressure.

This tool is critical for assessing cardiovascular health, as it helps detect conditions such as hypertension, which can lead to serious health issues if left untreated. Other devices mentioned, like the stethoscope, are used to listen to heart and lung sounds but do not measure blood pressure directly. A pulse oximeter measures oxygen saturation in the blood, and a thermometer measures body temperature, neither of which are related to blood pressure assessment.