APGAR Score
The Apgar score is used as a part of early assessment of a newborn. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]
A score of 0, 1, or 2 is assigned to each of the 5 physical signs at 1 and 5 minutes after birth. The maximum score that can be assigned is 10. Scores ranging from 7-10 are considered normal. If the 5-minute Apgar score is abnormal (< 7), appropriate measures should be taken. Apgar scores should be assigned every 5 minutes until the infant is stabilized.
Heart rate
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2 points = ≥100 beats/min
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1 point = < 100 beats/min
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0 points = Absent
Respirations
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2 points = Regular breathing/strong cry
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1 point = Irregular/weak/slow breathing/gasping
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0 points = Absent
Muscle tone and movement
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2 points = Good flexion/action motion
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1 point = Some flexion
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0 points = None/limp
Skin color / oxygenation
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2 points = Body and extremities pink
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1 point = Blue at extremities; pink body
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0 points = Completely blue
Reflex irritability to tactile stimulation
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2 points = Cry/cough/sneeze
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1 point = Grimace/feeble cry when stimulated
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0 points = Silence; no response to stimulation