Apgar Score

An Apgar score is a quick assessment of a newborn’s condition shortly after birth. Clinicians usually score appearance, pulse, grimace response, activity, and respiration at one minute and five minutes after delivery. The score can help the care team decide whether the baby needs immediate support. An Apgar score is one part of the medical record. A low score alone does not identify the cause of a child’s condition or prove that negligent care occurred.