Apgar score
The Apgar test is a quick test given to your newborn 1 minute after birth, and then again at 5 minutes after birth. It helps doctors and nurses determine your baby's well-being by looking at 5 different areas. The test is not a pass or fail test, it just helps your team make decisions on how to best care for your newborn. Babies can score anywhere from 1 to 10, with most healthy babies averaging a score of 7 or 8.
Points given for Apgar score
| Five areas evaluated | 0 | 1 | 2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heart rate | Absent | Under 100 | Greater than 100 |
| Color | Blue to pale | Body pinking – feet and hands blue | Pink |
| Breathing | Absent | Not regular | Crying/good rate |
| Muscle tone | Absent/flaccid | Some movement | Active movement |
| Reflexes | No response to stimulation | Grimace | Sneeze or cough – responds to stimulation |