Which of the following is a characteristic of indirect blood pressure measurement?

Indirect blood pressure measurement is characterized as a non-invasive technique because it does not require any penetration into the body or access to internal tissues. Instead, this method typically involves the use of an inflatable cuff placed around a limb, such as the leg or tail in animals, and a device—often a sphygmomanometer or an oscillometric monitor—that detects blood pressure changes as the cuff inflates and deflates. This approach allows for the monitoring of blood pressure without the need for surgical or invasive procedures.

The non-invasive nature of this technique makes it widely used in veterinary practice, particularly for routine health assessments and during procedures like anesthesia, where monitoring of vitals is crucial but needs to be performed in a manner that minimizes stress and discomfort for the patient. This characteristic also distinguishes it from invasive methods, which require direct access to blood vessels. Non-invasive practices are generally favored as they are safer for the patient and can often be performed more quickly and easily.