What vital sign is assessed through the use of a stethoscope?

The assessment of blood pressure is done using a stethoscope in conjunction with a sphygmomanometer (blood pressure cuff). When measuring blood pressure, the stethoscope is placed over the brachial artery in the arm to listen for the sound of blood flowing as the cuff is inflated and deflated. This allows the healthcare provider to identify the systolic and diastolic pressures based on when the sounds of Korotkoff are first heard and when they disappear.

While heart rate can be assessed by palpating pulses or using a stethoscope to listen at the apex of the heart, the specific measurement of blood pressure relies directly on the use of both a stethoscope and a cuff. Similarly, respiratory rate is typically counted by observing the rise and fall of the chest or abdomen, not through a stethoscope. Temperature measurement is done using a thermometer. Therefore, the correct answer highlights the specific vital sign that is uniquely assessed through the use of a stethoscope, which is blood pressure.