APGAR Score Calculator
Assess newborn health status immediately after birth using the standardized APGAR scoring system
APGAR Score Assessment
A - Appearance (Skin Color)
P - Pulse (Heart Rate)
G - Grimace (Reflex Irritability)
A - Activity (Muscle Tone)
R - Respiration (Breathing Effort)
APGAR Score Results
Clinical Recommendations
Action Required: Immediate resuscitation and intensive care
Additional Recommendations:
- •Reassess at 5 minutes post-birth
Score Interpretation Guide
APGAR Acronym
Appearance
Skin color assessment
Pulse
Heart rate evaluation
Grimace
Reflex irritability response
Activity
Muscle tone and movement
Respiration
Breathing effort and cry
Assessment Timeline
1 minute: Initial assessment of all newborns
5 minutes: Reassessment of all newborns
10+ minutes: Additional assessments if score < 7
Score ≤ 5 at 5min: Consider arterial blood gas
Key Facts
Developed by Dr. Virginia Apgar in 1952
Gold standard for newborn assessment
Each component scored 0, 1, or 2 points
Used worldwide in delivery rooms
Understanding the APGAR Score
What is the APGAR Score?
The APGAR score is a standardized system for assessing the health and vitality of newborn babies immediately after birth. Developed by Dr. Virginia Apgar in 1952, it evaluates five critical physiological parameters to determine if a newborn needs immediate medical attention.
When is it Used?
- •At 1 minute after birth for all newborns
- •At 5 minutes after birth for all newborns
- •Additional assessments if score < 7 at 5 minutes
- •To monitor response to resuscitation
Clinical Significance
Score 7-10: Reassuring
Normal, healthy newborn requiring routine care and monitoring.
Score 4-6: Moderately Abnormal
Some distress present, may require assistance and close monitoring.
Score 0-3: Severely Abnormal
Critical condition requiring immediate resuscitation and intensive care.
Limitations and Considerations
- •Can be affected by gestational age, maternal medications, and congenital conditions
- •Should not be used alone to diagnose asphyxia or predict long-term outcomes
- •Some components are subjective and may vary between assessors
- •Resuscitation efforts may influence the score
⚠️ Medical Disclaimer
This calculator is for educational purposes only and should never replace professional medical assessment. The APGAR score must be performed by trained healthcare professionals in a clinical setting. It is one component of newborn assessment and should be interpreted alongside other clinical findings. Emergency medical care should be provided based on the newborn's condition, not solely on the APGAR score. Always consult qualified healthcare providers for medical decisions and newborn care.