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APGAR score for newborns

Standardized newborn assessment across 5 components scored 0–2. Recorded at 1 and 5 minutes after birth.

About this calculator

The APGAR score is a rapid assessment of the newborn at 1 and 5 minutes of life. Proposed by Virginia Apgar (Curr Res Anesth Analg, 1953). Five parameters scored 0 to 2: Appearance skin color, Pulse heart rate, Grimace reflexes, Activity muscle tone, Respiration. Maximum 10 points. Interpretation. 7-10 – satisfactory, routine care. 4-6 – moderate newborn depression, requires airway suctioning, tactile stimulation, oxygen as needed. 0-3 – severe depression, resuscitation per ILCOR/NRP 2020 algorithm. The 5-minute score is key. Per AAP 2015, a score <7 at 5 minutes requires reassessment every 5 minutes up to 20 minutes. Persistently low scores prompt decisions about cesarean, emergency intubation, NICU transfer. What the score does NOT assess. APGAR does not equate to asphyxia, does not predict neurologic outcome, and should not be used for prognosis. A low score may be due to medication depression (maternal opioids), prematurity, congenital cardiac or respiratory anomalies without an asphyxial component. Asphyxia has separate criteria: umbilical cord pH <7.0, BE <-12, need for resuscitation, neurologic signs.

Source

Apgar V. A proposal for a new method of evaluation of the newborn infant. Curr Res Anesth Analg. 1953;32(4):260-267.

Formula version: apgar-1953-aap-2024-v1

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