A blood pressure monitor, also called a sphygmomanometer, is a device used to measure blood pressure, which is the force of blood pushing against the walls of the arteries. It typically consists of an inflatable cuff that wraps around the arm, a pressure gauge, and a mechanism for inflating and deflating the cuff.
How it Works:
1. Inflating the Cuff:
The cuff is placed on the upper arm and inflated to stop blood flow in the brachial artery.
2. Deflating and Listening:
As the cuff deflates, a stethoscope is used to listen for the sounds of blood rushing through the artery.
3. Measuring Pressure:
The pressure gauge (manometer) measures the pressure as the cuff deflates.
The first sound heard is the systolic pressure (highest pressure when the heart beats).
The last sound heard is the diastolic pressure (lowest pressure when the heart rests).
4. Digital Readings:
Some blood pressure monitors are digital and provide a digital display of the systolic and diastolic pressures.
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