APGAR score
Pronunciation: AP-gar
Also written as: APGAR — Appearance, Pulse, Grimace, Activity, Respiration
A standardized assessment tool evaluating newborn health at birth using five criteria.
Full Definition
The APGAR score is a rapid evaluation method developed by Dr. Virginia Apgar to assess newborn condition immediately after birth. Five parameters are scored 0-2: Appearance (skin color), Pulse (heart rate), Grimace (reflex irritability), Activity (muscle tone), and Respiration (breathing effort). Scores are recorded at 1 and 5 minutes after birth, with additional assessments if scores remain low. Total scores range from 0-10, with higher scores indicating better neonatal condition. This scoring system appears in all delivery records and neonatal documentation.
Usage
Usage note: Named after Dr. Virginia Apgar; acronym helps remember the five assessment criteria.
In Context
- "The infant's APGAR scores were 7 at one minute and 9 at five minutes." — Delivery summary
- "Documentation must include complete APGAR score components, not just the total." — Medical record audit