Which device measures blood pressure non-invasively?

Which device measures blood pressure non-invasively?

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

Answer: (B)

A sphygmomanometer is the device that measures blood pressure non-invasively. This instrument typically consists of an inflatable cuff that wraps around the upper arm, a pressure gauge (manometer), and a mechanism for inflating the cuff. When the cuff is inflated, it compresses the brachial artery, temporarily stopping blood flow. As the pressure in the cuff is gradually released, the technician or healthcare provider listens for specific sounds using a stethoscope at the arterial site. The point at which the sounds are first heard indicates the systolic blood pressure, while the point at which the sounds disappear indicates the diastolic blood pressure. This method provides a standard and reliable way to obtain blood pressure readings without penetrating the skin or requiring invasive procedures. The other choices do not measure blood pressure. A stethoscope is an acoustic device used to listen to internal sounds of a patient's body but does not measure blood pressure on its own. A pulse oximeter measures the oxygen saturation level in the blood, while a thermometer measures body temperature. Neither of these devices is designed for blood pressure measurement.

A sphygmomanometer is the device that measures blood pressure non-invasively. This instrument typically consists of an inflatable cuff that wraps around the upper arm, a pressure gauge (manometer), and a mechanism for inflating the cuff. When the cuff is inflated, it compresses the brachial artery, temporarily stopping blood flow. As the pressure in the cuff is gradually released, the technician or healthcare provider listens for specific sounds using a stethoscope at the arterial site. The point at which the sounds are first heard indicates the systolic blood pressure, while the point at which the sounds disappear indicates the diastolic blood pressure.

This method provides a standard and reliable way to obtain blood pressure readings without penetrating the skin or requiring invasive procedures. The other choices do not measure blood pressure. A stethoscope is an acoustic device used to listen to internal sounds of a patient's body but does not measure blood pressure on its own. A pulse oximeter measures the oxygen saturation level in the blood, while a thermometer measures body temperature. Neither of these devices is designed for blood pressure measurement.