What does the APGAR scale assess?

The APGAR scale is a quick assessment tool used to evaluate the vital functions of newborns immediately after birth. It measures five criteria: Appearance (skin color), Pulse (heart rate), Grimace response (reflexes), Activity (muscle tone), and Respiration (breathing effort). Each of these criteria is scored from 0 to 2, with a maximum total score of 10. The purpose of the APGAR score is to provide a rapid assessment of the newborn's physical condition and determine whether immediate medical intervention is necessary.

This scale is not used to assess concentration levels, developmental milestones, or neurological responses in a broader context. Rather, it focuses specifically on critical aspects of a newborn's transition to life outside the womb, addressing immediate health needs.