Which equipment is essential for measuring blood pressure?

• A. Sphygmomanometer and stethoscope
• B. Thermometer and pulse oximeter
• C. Electrocardiogram and ultrasound
• D. Manometer and spirometer

Answer: (A)

The equipment essential for measuring blood pressure is the combination of a sphygmomanometer and a stethoscope. The sphygmomanometer is designed to measure the pressure of blood in the arteries, which is crucial for assessing cardiovascular health. It consists of an inflatable cuff that compresses the arm and a manometer that displays the pressure readings.

A stethoscope is used in conjunction with the sphygmomanometer for auscultation, which involves listening to the arterial sounds through the stethoscope as the cuff deflates. This method allows for the accurate determination of both systolic and diastolic blood pressure readings. The collaborative use of these two pieces of equipment is a standard practice in clinical settings for obtaining reliable blood pressure measurements.

Other options provided do not relate directly to measuring blood pressure. For instance, a thermometer measures body temperature, while a pulse oximeter assesses blood oxygen levels. An electrocardiogram focuses on the electrical activity of the heart, and ultrasound is used for imaging. Lastly, a manometer can measure pressure but is not specifically designed for blood pressure assessment, while a spirometer measures lung function. Hence, the sphygmomanometer and stethoscope are uniquely suited for blood pressure measurement