Which of the following medical devices is commonly used to treat sleep apnea?

The CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machine is widely recognized and utilized as a primary treatment for sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a condition characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep due to the collapse of the airway. The CPAP machine works by delivering a continuous flow of air through a mask that keeps the airway open, preventing the pauses in breathing that are typical of sleep apnea. This intervention significantly improves oxygenation and reduces disturbances during sleep, leading to better rest and overall health.

In contrast, the other devices mentioned have different applications. A heart monitor is primarily used to observe and record the heart's activity and functions; it does not address airway issues or treat sleep apnea. Blood pressure cuffs measure the pressure in the arteries and are essential for managing cardiovascular health but do not play a role in sleep disorders. Oximeters are used to assess the oxygen saturation in a patient's blood; while they can indicate hypoxia, they do not provide the continuous positive airway pressure necessary to treat sleep apnea effectively. Thus, the CPAP machine is the correct choice for managing this specific condition.