APGAR Scores (antenatal period)

The Apgar score is a number calculated by scoring the heart rate, respiratory effort, muscle tone, skin color, and reflex irritability. Each of these objective signs can receive 0, 1, or 2 points.  A perfect Apgar score of 10 means an infant is in the best possible condition. An infant with an Apgar score of 0-3 needs immediate resuscitation.  The Apgar score is done routinely 60 seconds after the birth of the infant and then is repeated five minutes after birth.