What tool is commonly used to measure blood pressure?

The sphygmomanometer is the primary tool used for measuring blood pressure. It consists of an inflatable cuff that is wrapped around the upper arm and a dial or electronic display that indicates the pressure reading. When the cuff is inflated and then gradually deflated, it measures the pressure in the arteries, providing two critical values: systolic and diastolic blood pressure. This measurement is integral to assessing cardiovascular health and monitoring conditions such as hypertension.

The other tools mentioned serve different purposes. A thermometer is used to measure body temperature, a stethoscope is employed to listen to internal body sounds (such as heart and lung activity), and a pulse oximeter measures the oxygen saturation level in the blood. Each of these devices plays an important role in patient assessment but is not designed for blood pressure measurement.