Apgar scoring is used to assess newborn adaptation. Which option describes this purpose?

• A. To assess newborn adaptation
• B. To monitor maternal blood pressure
• C. To evaluate placental maturity
• D. To calculate gestational age

Answer: (B)

Apgar scoring is a quick, standardized way to evaluate how well a newborn is adapting to life outside the uterus. It is typically recorded at 1 minute and again at 5 minutes after birth, with the option to continue at 10 minutes if the scores are low. The score sums five criteria—heart rate, respiratory effort, muscle tone, reflex irritability, and skin color—each graded 0 to 2, for a total that reflects the newborn’s immediate condition and need for resuscitation or intervention. A higher total indicates better adaptation.

This tool is specifically about the newborn’s status after birth, not about the mother’s health or other pregnancy factors. It does not monitor maternal blood pressure, evaluate placental maturity, or calculate gestational age.