Apgar Test
An Apgar test is given to a baby one minute after it is born, and then five minutes later, to evaluate its physical condition. Developed in 1952 by anesthesiologist Virginia Apgar, the results of the test are used to determine whether there is an immediate need for medical intervention.
An Apgar test is performed by a doctor or nurse, and is used to evaluate the following:
- Heart rate
- Breathing
- Reflexes
- Muscle tone
- Skin color
Each factor is scored on a scale of 0 to 2, with 2 being the highest score. A normal result is in the range of 7 to 9.
Low Apgar Test Score
Any score lower than 7 is considered abnormal. A low score may be a sign that the infant needs additional medical attention to help adjust to life outside the womb. A doctor or nurse may apply physical stimulation to get the baby's heart beating at a normal rate, or clear its airway to help with its breathing. If necessary, the baby is given oxygen. Low Apgar scars are common in infants who are born in the following situations:
- Prematurely
- Through Cesarean section
- After a high-risk pregnancy
- After a difficult labor and delivery
A low Apgar score does not mean that the baby will have serious or long-term medical problems. Often, by the performed-five-minutes-later second test, Apgar scores are in the normal range. If they remain low after several tests, the infant may be transferred to a neonatal unit for more intensive medical treatment.