The instrument shown in the image is a Sahli's Hemoglobinometer, which is used for the manual estimation of hemoglobin in blood.
This method works on the principle of colorimetry, where blood is mixed with N/10 HCl to form a brown-colored compound called acid hematin.
The key components visible in the image, such as the comparator box with standard brown glass rods, a graduated tube, and a pipette, are characteristic of a Sahli's kit.
The color of the acid hematin solution is visually compared against the standard in the comparator box to determine the hemoglobin concentration.
Why Other Options Were Wrong
Option B: A sphygmomanometer is used to measure blood pressure and consists of an inflatable cuff, a pressure gauge (manometer), and a bulb, none of which are the primary components shown in the image.
Option C: A thermometer is a device used for measuring body temperature. The complex kit with a comparator and glassware shown in the image is not a thermometer.
Option D: A nebulizer is a respiratory device that turns liquid medicine into a mist for inhalation. The equipment in the image is for blood analysis, not for administering inhaled medication.
Related Visual
Visual 1: Diagram: Labeled parts of a Sahli's Hemoglobinometer kit, clearly showing the comparator, pipette, graduated tube, and stirrer.
Visual 2: Flowchart: Step-by-step procedure of hemoglobin estimation using Sahli's method, from blood collection and mixing with acid to the final color matching and reading.
Clinical Relevance
Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Identification of medical laboratory equipment as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Hemoglobin estimation is a fundamental hematological test used to diagnose and classify anemia, monitor response to treatment for anemia, and assess the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood before surgery or blood donation.
While automated hematology analyzers are the standard in modern laboratories due to their higher accuracy and precision, the Sahli's method remains a crucial, low-cost diagnostic tool in resource-limited settings, rural health camps, and for educational purposes in nursing and medical colleges.
A major source of error in this method is subjective visual comparison, which can lead to inter-observer variability. Proper training and good lighting are essential for reliable results.
How to Approach the Question
This is an image-based identification question requiring recall of laboratory equipment.
First, carefully observe the components within the kit shown in the image.
Identify the key parts: a black comparator box with colored glass standards, a graduated glass tube, a pipette with a mouthpiece, and a cleaning brush.
Recognize that this specific combination of equipment is designed for a colorimetric comparison test involving a liquid sample.
Relate this function (hemoglobin measurement by color comparison) to the options provided.
Systematically eliminate the other options by recalling their distinct functions: a sphygmomanometer for blood pressure, a thermometer for temperature, and a nebulizer for inhaled medication.
Concept Tested & Keywords
Concept Tested: Identification of medical laboratory equipment.
Stem keywords: Identify, image
Lead-in keywords: BEST, MOST RELEVANT CLUE
Question ID
QiH3GocunBgCEMuIou58E8
Practise the full MP NHM CHO-2024 (Shift-1)
Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.