Texas Medical Assistant Certification Practice Test

A sphygmomanometer is used to measure what?

1. Blood pressure

2. Blood oxygen level

3. Blood glucose level

4. Respiration rate

The correct answer is: Blood pressure

A sphygmomanometer is specifically designed to measure blood pressure, which is the force of blood against the walls of the arteries. The instrument typically consists of a cuff that wraps around the arm and inflates to constrict blood flow, along with a manometer that displays pressure readings. The measurement recorded includes systolic pressure (the pressure during heartbeats) and diastolic pressure (the pressure between beats). This makes it an essential tool for assessing cardiovascular health and diagnosing conditions such as hypertension. In contrast, the other options pertain to different types of medical assessments. Blood oxygen level is measured using pulse oximeters, blood glucose level is determined through blood tests, and respiration rate is assessed through clinical observation or specialized devices. Each of these parameters requires different tools and techniques, which underscores the specialized function of the sphygmomanometer in monitoring blood pressure.