Table 1 How numerical ratings are assigned to describe the five Apgar signs and symptoms used to assess a baby’s condition at birth
Apgar sign | 0 | 1 | 2 |
|---|---|---|---|
Activity (muscle tone) | Limp, no movement, muscles are floppy and loose | Some muscle tone, some flexing of arms and legs | Active, spontaneous motion, flexed arms and legs that resist extension |
Pulse (heart rate) | No heart rate | Fewer than 100 beats per minute | At least 100 beats per minute |
Grimace (reflexes) | No response to stimulation | Facial grimace during stimulation | Pulls away, coughs, cries vigorously, or sneezes during stimulation |
Appearance | Entire body is blue or pale | Good color in body with bluish hands or feet | Good color all over |
Respiration (breathing) | Not breathing | Slow or irregular breathing, weak cry, whimpering | Normal rate and effort of breathing; good, strong cry |