Which term describes the device used to measure arterial blood pressure?

Which term describes the device used to measure arterial blood pressure?

• A. Sphygmomanometer
• B. Korotkoff Sounds
• C. Pulse Rhythmic
• D. Respiration

Answer: (A)

Measuring arterial blood pressure uses a cuff-based instrument called a sphygmomanometer. It wraps around the upper arm and, when inflated, temporarily stops blood flow so you can gauge the pressure as the cuff deflates. In manual measurements, you listen with a stethoscope for Korotkoff sounds—the first tapping sound marks systolic pressure, and when the sounds disappear, that indicates diastolic pressure. Modern automated devices still use a cuff and gauge but may detect pressure electronically without listening for sounds. The other terms shown aren’t the instrument itself: Korotkoff sounds are the noises heard during auscultation, Pulse Rhythmic refers to heartbeat patterns, and Respiration concerns breathing.

Measuring arterial blood pressure uses a cuff-based instrument called a sphygmomanometer. It wraps around the upper arm and, when inflated, temporarily stops blood flow so you can gauge the pressure as the cuff deflates. In manual measurements, you listen with a stethoscope for Korotkoff sounds—the first tapping sound marks systolic pressure, and when the sounds disappear, that indicates diastolic pressure. Modern automated devices still use a cuff and gauge but may detect pressure electronically without listening for sounds. The other terms shown aren’t the instrument itself: Korotkoff sounds are the noises heard during auscultation, Pulse Rhythmic refers to heartbeat patterns, and Respiration concerns breathing.