Sphygmomanometer facts for kids

A medical sphygmomanometer, showing the cuff, bulb, and meter

A sphygmomanometer (SFIG-moh-mə-NOM-i-tər) is a special tool. It is also called a blood pressure meter or blood pressure monitor. Doctors and nurses use it to measure your blood pressure. This device was first invented in 1881 by a doctor from Austria. Today, you can find them in many different sizes and types.

How a Sphygmomanometer Works

A sphygmomanometer helps measure how hard your blood pushes against your blood vessels. It has a soft fabric band called a "cuff." This cuff wraps around your arm or another part of your body.

Using the Cuff

First, the cuff fills up with air. This air makes the cuff squeeze your arm. It gently stops the flow of blood for a moment. Then, the air slowly leaves the cuff. As the air goes out, the blood starts to flow again. The whole process is quick, usually taking about one minute.

Reading the Measurement

Many sphygmomanometers use a small bulb that you squeeze to pump air into the cuff. A gauge then shows the pressure. This gauge can be mechanical or filled with mercury. It is important not to inflate the cuff too much. Sometimes, a stethoscope is used to listen to the blood flow.

Automatic Blood Pressure Monitors

Some sphygmomanometers are automatic. These are often used at home. They have an electric pump that inflates the cuff by itself. They show your blood pressure numbers on a screen. These types are very easy to use for anyone.

Images for kids

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  BP 138/73 mmHg as result on electronic sphygmomanometer

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  Aneroid sphygmomanometer with an adult cuff

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  Aneroid sphygmomanometer dial, bulb, and air valve

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  Clinical WelchAllyn sphygmomanometer

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  Medical student taking blood pressure at the brachial artery

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  Explanation of how blood pressure is measured based on Korotkow sounds

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  A French sphygmomanometer used during World War I

See also

In Spanish: Esfigmomanómetro para niños