How to Interpret a Baby's Apgar Score

Babies are given a test at birth. This test, called the Apgar score, allows doctors to evaluate a newborn's physical condition after delivery to determine if there is a need for extra medical care. Apgar is an acronym for Activity, Pulse, Grimace, Appearance and Respiration. A baby's score can range from one to ten. A baby who scores a seven or above, one minute after birth, is usually considered healthy.

Instructions

1. Decipher the activity score. A Zero means the baby has no movement and is "floppy." Baby receives a One if the arms and legs flex with little movement. Baby scores a Two if he or she is active and moves spontaneously.

2. Understand the pulse grade. A baby gets a Zero if the pulse is absent. If the heart rate is below 100 beats/minute, he or she receives a One; a Two if the heart rate is above 100 beats per minute.

3. Decode the grimace score, sometimes referred to as the reflex or responsiveness score. If the baby does not respond to stimuli, the score is Zero. If baby makes a face (grimaces) when stimulated or suctioned, the score is One. If he or she sneezes, coughs or pulls away from the stimuli, the score is Two.

4. Interpret the appearance grade. A baby that is pale or blue/grey receives a Zero score. If a baby is normal colored but has blue hands or feet, he or she scores a One. If baby is pink all over, including appendages, he or she gets a Two.

5. Comprehend the respiration score. If the baby is not breathing, the score is Zero. If the breathing is slow or irregular or he or she has a weak cry, the score is One. If baby's breathing is at a normal rate and takes a normal effort, with a lusty cry, he or she gets a Two.