Final answer:
The appropriate interval for repeating the Apgar score is every 5 minutes up to 20 minutes. Resuscitation measures may be needed if the score remains low. The Apgar score is assessed at 1 and 5 minutes after birth, with lower scores indicating a potential need for medical intervention.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Apgar score is a quick assessment of a newborn's health, with criteria including skin color, heart rate, reflex, muscle tone, and respiration. Each criterion receives a score between 0 and 2, with a total possible score of 10. Apgar scores are taken at 1 minute and again at 5 minutes after birth. High scores suggest the newborn is transitioning well, with scores of 8 or above being normal. Lower scores may indicate distress or the need for medical intervention.
An Apgar score below 7 at the 5-minute mark may necessitate medical assistance. A score below 5 is considered an emergency. In terms of when the Apgar scoring should be repeated and when resuscitation measures may be necessary, option B is correct: Repeat every 5 minutes up to 20 minutes; resuscitation may be necessary if the score remains low. Heart rate and respiration are especially critical measurements within the Apgar criteria.