What instrument is typically used to measure blood pressure?

The sphygmomanometer is the standard instrument used to measure blood pressure. It typically consists of an inflatable cuff that is placed around the upper arm, a pressure gauge, and a bulb for inflation. When the cuff inflates, it compresses the arteries, and as it slowly deflates, the pressure is measured at two points: the systolic pressure (the first sound heard) and the diastolic pressure (when the sound disappears). This allows healthcare professionals to assess cardiovascular health by gauging how effectively the heart is pumping blood and how well the arteries are responding.

Other instruments such as a stethoscope are often used in conjunction with the sphygmomanometer for auditory assessment of blood pressure sounds but do not measure blood pressure themselves. An oximeter measures oxygen saturation in the blood, and a thermometer assesses body temperature, neither of which are related to blood pressure measurement. Thus, the sphygmomanometer is specifically designed for the accurate measurement of blood pressure, making it the correct choice.