APGAR Score

How to use it

1. 1

   Score at 1 and 5 minutes. 1-min APGAR indicates need for immediate intervention. 5-min reflects response to resuscitation.

2. 2

   Heart rate is most important. HR < 100 = most significant sign. HR 0 → immediate CPR.

3. 3

   Score at 10 minutes if < 7. Low APGAR at 10 min: cooling (therapeutic hypothermia) candidacy assessment if appropriate gestation.

When to use it

All deliveries

Recorded at 1, 5, and 10 minutes for documentation and resuscitation guidance.

Perinatal asphyxia assessment

APGAR 0–3 at 5 min: higher risk of HIE — consider cooling at ≥36 weeks gestation.

Research and audit

APGAR ≤6 at 5 min: defined threshold in many outcome studies.