Final answer:
A sphygmomanometer is used to measure blood pressure, consisting of an inflatable cuff for the arm and a pressure meter to gauge blood flow-restricted by the cuff.
Step-by-step explanation:
The instrument that measures blood pressure is called a sphygmomanometer. This device is essential in medical practices for monitoring cardiovascular health. A typical sphygmomanometer includes an inflatable cuff that goes around the upper arm and a pressure meter, often linked to a stethoscope in manual models, to measure the pressure exerted by the blood flow. Digital sphygmomanometers have simplified the process and don't always require a stethoscope for the user to hear the blood flow sounds, which are essential to determine the systolic and diastolic pressure readings. Blood pressure readings provided by a sphygmomanometer are denominated in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg), reflecting the pressure needed to raise a column of mercury.