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apgar scores

apgar scores are measurements and observations made by a health professional at 1 and 5 minutes after birth to assess a newborn's health.

the health professional checks 5 areas and gives the newborn a score ranging from 0 to 2 in each of the 5 areas. with 2 being the highest number a baby can get in each area, when the scores are added up, the maximum score is 10. a total score of 7 to 10 is normal.

the 5 areas checked include the newborn's:

  • heart rate.
  • skin colour.
  • muscle tone (judged by whether the newborn's arms and legs are flexed or limp).
  • breathing.
  • reflex irritability (judged by whether the newborn cries or reacts when the skin is stroked or touched).

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this information does not replace the advice of a doctor. healthwise, incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. your use of this information means that you agree to the terms of use and privacy policy. to learn more about healthwise, visit healthwise.org. © 1995-2022 healthwise, incorporated. healthwise, healthwise for every health decision, and the healthwise logo are trademarks of healthwise, incorporated.

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