Which device is used to measure blood pressure noninvasively?

Which device is used to measure blood pressure noninvasively?

• A. Sphygmomanometer with cuff or automated BP monitor
• B. Stethoscope alone
• C. Otoscope
• D. Thermometer

Answer: (A)

Measuring blood pressure without invasive methods is done with a cuff-based device called a sphygmomanometer. The cuff wraps around the upper arm and, when inflated, temporarily blocks blood flow. As the cuff pressure is released, the device records the pressure at which blood begins to flow again (systolic) and the pressure when flow is no longer detected (diastolic). If using a manual method, a clinician uses a stethoscope to listen for the sounds of blood flow (Korotkoff sounds) to determine those values. Automated BP monitors perform the same measurement without needing a clinician to listen, using sensors to detect oscillations or pressure changes. The other devices aren’t used to measure blood pressure. A stethoscope alone can’t provide a BP reading without a cuff and pressure measurement. An otoscope is for looking into the ears, and a thermometer measures temperature.

Measuring blood pressure without invasive methods is done with a cuff-based device called a sphygmomanometer. The cuff wraps around the upper arm and, when inflated, temporarily blocks blood flow. As the cuff pressure is released, the device records the pressure at which blood begins to flow again (systolic) and the pressure when flow is no longer detected (diastolic). If using a manual method, a clinician uses a stethoscope to listen for the sounds of blood flow (Korotkoff sounds) to determine those values. Automated BP monitors perform the same measurement without needing a clinician to listen, using sensors to detect oscillations or pressure changes.

The other devices aren’t used to measure blood pressure. A stethoscope alone can’t provide a BP reading without a cuff and pressure measurement. An otoscope is for looking into the ears, and a thermometer measures temperature.