Definition of Apgar score
: an index used to evaluate the condition of a newborn infant based on a rating of 0, 1, or 2 for each of the five characteristics of color, heart rate, response to stimulation of the sole of the foot, muscle tone, and respiration with 10 being a perfect score
From the M-W Editors
Origin and Etymology of apgar score
Virginia Apgar †1974 American anesthesiologist
Medical Dictionary
Apgar score
playMedical Definition of Apgar score
: an index used to evaluate the condition of a newborn infant based on a rating of 0, 1, or 2 for each of the five characteristics of color, heart rate, response to stimulation of the sole of the foot, muscle tone, and respiration with 10 being a perfect score
Biographical Note for apgar score
Apgar
, Virginia
(1909–1974), American physician. Apgar began her medical career as an anesthesiologist and was for many years an attending anesthesiologist. As a result of her duties in the hospital delivery room, she developed a concern for the lack of immediate medical attention given the newborn. To rectify the situation she developed the Apgar score as a simple, quick test to determine the need for emergency treatment. The test soon became a standard procedure in hospitals all over the world. Turning to the study of congenital anomalies, Apgar became an authority on teratology and proper prenatal care.
Learn More about apgar score
-
See words that rhyme with Apgar score Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about Apgar score
Seen and Heard
What made you want to look up Apgar score? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Writing? Check your grammar now!