Previous Year Question
A sphygmomanometer is used to measure which of the following?
A.
Blood pressure
B.
Vocal cords
C.
Concentration of glucose in blood
D.
Electrical activity by a pacemaker
Correct Answer: A
Detailed Solution
A sphygmomanometer is an instrument used to measure blood pressure. According to MedlinePlus, a sphygmomanometer, commonly referred to as a blood pressure cuff, is used for measuring blood pressure.
Blood pressure is generally expressed using two values—
Systolic pressure = pressure in the arteries when the heart contracts
Diastolic pressure = pressure in the arteries when the heart relaxes
Blood pressure is commonly expressed in mmHg (millimetres of mercury).
Important fact: A value of 120/80 mmHg is often used as a reference for healthy adults, although normal blood pressure can vary depending on age, health and other factors.