What is the purpose of a sphygmomanometer?

A sphygmomanometer is a medical instrument specifically designed to measure blood pressure. It typically consists of an inflatable cuff that is placed around the patient's arm and a measuring unit that shows the pressure readings. Blood pressure is an essential vital sign that indicates the force of blood flowing against the walls of the arteries. Monitoring blood pressure is crucial in assessing cardiovascular health, diagnosing conditions like hypertension, and managing treatment for various heart-related issues.

In contrast, the other options represent different physiological measurements. For instance, measuring heart rate involves counting the number of beats per minute, typically using a stethoscope or electronic monitor. Gauging oxygen levels in the blood requires a pulse oximeter, which uses light to assess how much oxygen is being carried by hemoglobin in the blood. Monitoring respiratory rates focuses on counting the number of breaths taken in a minute, which is indicative of respiratory health. Each of these aspects is vital in patient assessment, but the specific function of a sphygmomanometer is clearly to measure blood pressure.