Final answer:
Blood pressure is measured using a sphygmomanometer, an inflatable cuff, pump, and stethoscope. The cuff is wrapped around the upper arm, inflated and slowly released to measure blood flow. The readings are reported as two numbers, representing systolic and diastolic pressure.
Step-by-step explanation:
Blood pressure is measured with a sphygmomanometer, which consists of an inflatable cuff, a pump, and a stethoscope. The cuff is wrapped around the upper arm, inflated to restrict blood flow, and then slowly released. As the pressure in the cuff decreases, blood flow begins and audible sounds, called Korotkoff sounds, can be heard through the stethoscope. The reading is reported as two numbers, representing the systolic and diastolic pressure.