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Understanding the Apgar Score: What You Need to Know

The Apgar score is an important tool used to assess the health of newborns. It is performed shortly after birth and is used to determine the overall health of the baby. Here is what you need to know about the Apgar score.

What is the Apgar score?

The Apgar score is a test used to assess the health of newborns. It is performed shortly after birth and is used to determine the overall health of the baby. The Apgar score is based on five criteria: heart rate, respiratory effort, muscle tone, reflex irritability, and color.

When is the Apgar score performed?

The Apgar score is performed shortly after birth, usually within one minute of delivery.

Who performs the Apgar tests?

The Apgar test is typically performed by a doctor or midwife.

How does the Apgar test work?

The Apgar test is based on five criteria: heart rate, respiratory effort, muscle tone, reflex irritability, and color. Each criterion is scored on a scale of 0 to 2, with 0 being the lowest score and 2 being the highest. The total score is then calculated and used to determine the overall health of the baby.

What happens during the Apgar test?

During the Apgar test, the doctor or midwife will assess the baby’s heart rate, respiratory effort, muscle tone, reflex irritability, and color. The baby’s score is then calculated and used to determine the overall health of the baby.

What is a normal Apgar score?

A normal Apgar score is 7 or higher. A score of 7 or higher indicates that the baby is in good health.

What happens if the Apgar score is low?

If the Apgar score is low, the doctor or midwife may take additional steps to assess the baby’s health. This may include additional tests or treatments.

When will I know the results of the Apgar test?

The results of the Apgar test are usually available within one minute of delivery.

Who invented the Apgar score?

The Apgar score was invented by Dr. Virginia Apgar in 1952.

References:

1. Apgar Score. (2020). Retrieved from https://www.webmd.com/baby/apgar-score#1
2. Apgar Score. (2020). Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/apgar-score/about/pac-20384790
3. Apgar Score. (2020). Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/health/apgar-score

Keywords: Apgar score, newborns, health, assessment, criteria, heart rate, respiratory effort, muscle tone, reflex irritability, color.