A neonate is born at term. At 2 minutes of life, the following are noted: heart rate 108 bpm, irregular gasping respirations, body pink but extremities blue, weak cry with grimace on stimulation, and good muscle tone. What is the Apgar score?
- A 7 ✓
- B 6
- C 5
- D 8
Correct answer: A. 7
Explanation
Apgar scoring uses five parameters, each scored 0–2. Heart rate 108 bpm (>100) = 2; Respiratory effort: irregular gasping = 1 (absent = 0, good cry = 2); Color: body pink, extremities blue (acrocyanosis) = 1 (completely blue = 0, completely pink = 2); Reflex irritability: weak cry/grimace = 1 (no response = 0, vigorous cry/cough = 2); Muscle tone: good = 2 (limp = 0, active motion = 2). Total = 2+1+1+1+2 = 7. An Apgar of 7–10 is normal. Scores 4–6 indicate moderate depression requiring stimulation; <4 indicates severe depression requiring immediate resuscitation.
Reference: Ghai Essential Pediatrics, 10th ed.
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