APGAR Scoring System

 The APGAR Scoring System was developed by Dr. Virginia APGAR as a method of assessing the newborn’s adjustment to extrauterine life. It is taken at one minute and five minutes after birth. With depressed infants, repeat scoring every five minutes as needed. The one minute score indicates the necessity for resuscitation. The five minute score is more reliable in predicting mortality and neurologic deficits. The most important is the heart rate, then the respiratory rate, the muscle tone, reflex irritability and color follows in decreasing order. A heart rate below 100 signifies an asphyxiated baby and a heart rate above 160 signifies distress.

 
Assess012
Appearance (Skin color)Blue all overBody pink, extremities bluePink all over
Pulse (Heart Rate)AbsentBelow 100Above 100
Grimace (Reflex Irritability)No ResponseGrimaceVigorous cry
Activity (Muscle Tone)FlaccidSome flexionActive motion
Respiration (Breathing)AbsentSlowGood crying

SCORE:

  • 7-10 Good adjustment, vigorous
  • Moderately depressed infant, needs airway clearance
  • Severely depressed infant, in need of resuscitation

Exam

Choose the letter of the correct answer. Good luck!
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