apgar score

noun

Meaning

A standardized assessment performed on newborns one and five minutes after birth to evaluate their physical condition and need for immediate medical intervention.

Examples

  • The neonatologist noted that the infant's Apgar score improved significantly from the first minute to the fifth.
  • A low Apgar score does not necessarily indicate long-term health problems but signals that the baby may need extra support.

Synonyms: newborn assessment, neonatal evaluation