Texas Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Practice Exam

The sphygmomanometer is the standard equipment used to measure blood pressure. It consists of an inflatable cuff that is wrapped around the upper arm and a measuring device that can display the pressure in millimeters of mercury (mmHg). During the procedure, the cuff is inflated to restrict blood flow, and then it is gradually deflated while listening to the sounds of the blood flow with a stethoscope. The values obtained indicate the systolic and diastolic pressures, which are essential for assessing cardiovascular health.

While a stethoscope is often used alongside the sphygmomanometer to auscultate the blood flow sounds, it is not the primary device for measuring blood pressure itself. An otoscope is primarily used to examine the ears, and a thermometer measures body temperature, neither of which is relevant to blood pressure measurement. Understanding the role of the sphygmomanometer is key for CNAs in monitoring patients' vital signs effectively.