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Apgar Score Calculator

Assess newborn health at 1, 5, and 10 minutes after birth using the standardized Apgar scoring system.

Assessment Time

AppearancePulseGrimaceActivityRespiration
A

Appearance

Skin color

P

Pulse

Heart rate

G

Grimace

Reflex irritability

A

Activity

Muscle tone

R

Respiration

Breathing effort

Score Interpretation

7-10: NormalBaby is in good condition
4-6: Moderately DepressedMay require some resuscitation
0-3: Severely DepressedRequires immediate resuscitation
Clinical Notes
  • The 5-minute Apgar score is more predictive of outcome than the 1-minute score
  • A 10-minute score is recorded if the 5-minute score is less than 7
  • The Apgar score should not be used to determine need for resuscitation
  • Resuscitation should begin before the 1-minute assessment if needed

About the Apgar Score

History

The Apgar score was developed in 1952 by Virginia Apgar, an American obstetrical anesthesiologist. It provides a standardized method to evaluate the physical condition of newborns shortly after birth.

When to Assess

The Apgar score is routinely assessed at 1 minute and 5 minutes after birth. If the 5-minute score is less than 7, additional assessments are performed every 5 minutes for up to 20 minutes.

Limitations

  • Subjective assessment that can vary between observers
  • May be affected by gestational age, maternal medications, or congenital abnormalities
  • Not designed to predict long-term neurological outcome
  • Should not delay resuscitation efforts when needed

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