Sphygmomanometer (BP)

An Aneroid Sphygmomanometer is a medical device used to measure blood pressure. Here is a description of its key components and how it works:

Components of an Aneroid Sphygmomanometer:

• Cuff: The inflatable part that wraps around the arm. It is typically made of fabric and has a Velcro closure.
• Pressure Bulb: Used to inflate the cuff by squeezing it to pump air into the cuff.
• Pressure Gauge: This is the dial that displays the pressure reading in millimeters of mercury (mmHg).
• Valve: Used to release the air from the cuff to deflate it after the blood pressure measurement.
• Stethoscope: Often used in conjunction with the sphygmomanometer to listen to the Korotkoff sounds while taking blood pressure readings.

How an Aneroid Sphygmomanometer works:

1. The cuff is wrapped snugly around the upper arm above the elbow.
2. The pressure bulb is squeezed to inflate the cuff, which temporarily stops blood flow in the brachial artery.
3. The pressure gauge indicates the pressure in the cuff.
4. The valve is slowly released to allow the air to escape from the cuff, and the healthcare provider listens through a stethoscope placed over the brachial artery.
5. The systolic pressure (when the first sound is heard) and diastolic pressure (when the sound disappears) are recorded from the pressure gauge.

Aneroid sphygmomanometers are commonly used in medical settings and are known for their accuracy and portability. They are widely used by healthcare professionals to monitor blood pressure and diagnose hypertension.