A sphygmomanometer is a device that measures blood pressure. It is composed of an inflatable rubber cuff, which is wrapped around the arm. A measuring device indicates the cuff's pressure. A bulb inflates the cuff and a valve releases pressure. A stethoscope is used to listen to arterial blood flow sounds.

Digital sphygmomanometers are automated, providing blood pressure reading without needing someone to operate the cuff or listen to the blood flow sounds. However, digital types are less accurate. Some healthcare providers use digital sphygmomanometers for screening and manual ones to validate readings in some situations.

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