What method is used to assess a patient's blood pressure?

The auscultatory method using a sphygmomanometer is the standard technique for assessing a patient's blood pressure. This method involves using a device called a sphygmomanometer, which includes an inflatable cuff, a measuring scale, and a stethoscope. The cuff is placed around the patient's upper arm and inflated to occlude blood flow in the brachial artery.

As the cuff is gradually deflated, the practitioner listens with the stethoscope for the characteristic sounds known as Korotkoff sounds. These sounds indicate the return of blood flow and allow the determination of systolic and diastolic blood pressure readings. This method is widely accepted and provides accurate, reliable measurements when performed correctly, making it the gold standard in blood pressure assessment.

While other methods such as palpation, digital monitoring, and telemetry can be used in specific circumstances or situations requiring quick assessments, the auscultatory method remains the most commonly used and validated approach in clinical settings.