BP is measured with the help of?

Appeared in: ESIC Nursing Officer 2016 (Shift -2)

Explanation

A sphygmomanometer is the standard medical instrument specifically designed for the non-invasive measurement of arterial blood pressure.
It works by temporarily stopping blood flow in an artery with an inflatable cuff and then gradually releasing the pressure to listen for the systolic and diastolic sounds (Korotkoff sounds).
The device consists of three main parts: an inflatable cuff, a pressure gauge (manometer), and an inflation mechanism (bulb or pump).

Option A: An ophthalmoscope is an optical instrument used for examining the interior structures of the eye, such as the retina and optic nerve.
Option B: A goniometer is a tool used to measure the angle or range of motion of a joint.
Option D: A proctoscope is a type of endoscope used for the visual examination of the anal canal and the lower part of the rectum.

Visual 1: Image: A labeled diagram of an aneroid sphygmomanometer, clearly identifying the cuff, pressure gauge (manometer), inflation bulb, and air release valve.
Visual 2: Infographic: A comparative chart showing images and primary uses of a Sphygmomanometer, Ophthalmoscope, Goniometer, and Proctoscope to visually differentiate the tools.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Medical Diagnostic Instruments as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Accurate blood pressure measurement is a fundamental nursing skill, critical for diagnosing and managing hypertension, a leading cause of cardiovascular disease, stroke, and kidney disease.
Errors in BP measurement technique can lead to misdiagnosis, resulting in either unnecessary treatment and side effects, or failure to treat a serious condition.
What if? If the wrong cuff size is used, the reading will be inaccurate. A cuff that is too small for the patient's arm will give a falsely high reading, while a cuff that is too large will give a falsely low reading.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question that tests your knowledge of common medical equipment.
First, identify the key term in the question: 'BP' (Blood Pressure).
Next, recall the specific medical instrument used for measuring blood pressure.
Evaluate each option provided and match it with its known function.
Eliminate the options that are used for other purposes: Ophthalmoscope (eye), Goniometer (joints), and Proctoscope (rectum).
Select the remaining option, Sphygmomanometer, which is the correct instrument for measuring BP.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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Practise the full ESIC Nursing Officer 2016 (Shift -2)

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.