JBL Obstetrics and Pediatrics Practice Test 2026 - Free Obstetrics and Pediatrics Practice Questions and Study Guide

The purpose of the Apgar score is to assess the health of a newborn immediately after birth. This assessment is performed at one and five minutes after delivery, using a simple scoring system that evaluates five criteria: appearance (skin color), pulse (heart rate), grimace response (reflexes), activity (muscle tone), and respiration (breathing effort). Each criterion is scored from 0 to 2, with a maximum total score of 10. The Apgar score helps healthcare providers quickly determine if a newborn requires immediate medical attention, providing crucial information about the infant's physical condition and readiness to adapt to life outside the womb. This immediate evaluation can influence decisions regarding care and interventions needed for the newborn’s well-being.