Which instrument is most commonly used to measure blood pressure?

The instrument most commonly used to measure blood pressure is a sphygmomanometer. This device consists of an inflatable cuff that wraps around the arm and a measuring unit that detects the pressure within the cuff. As the cuff is inflated, it compresses the artery, and the pressure is gradually released. A healthcare provider typically uses a stethoscope in conjunction with the sphygmomanometer to listen for specific sounds known as Korotkoff sounds, which indicate systolic and diastolic blood pressure readings.

The sphygmomanometer provides a direct and reliable measurement of blood pressure, which is critical for diagnosing and monitoring various medical conditions, such as hypertension. Understanding both the systolic and diastolic values helps clinicians assess a patient's cardiovascular health and make informed decisions regarding treatment.

Other instruments mentioned serve different purposes. A stethoscope amplifies sounds within the body and is often used alongside the sphygmomanometer but is not a standalone device for measuring blood pressure. A pulse oximeter measures oxygen saturation in the blood, and a thermometer measures body temperature, which does not relate directly to blood pressure assessment. Thus, the sphygmomanometer is the definitive instrument used for this specific purpose.