Question

Five minutes after a spontaneous vaginal delivery, a full-term newborn presents with the following: Heart 120/min, Res 24 and shallow, partial flexion position, crying when suctioned, and blush extremities. What would the nurse determine the newborn's APGAR score?

a) 4
b) 6
c) 8
d) 10

Answer 1

The APGAR score for the described newborn is 7, which is calculated by adding the individual scores for heart rate (2), respiration (1), reflex response to suctioning (2), muscle tone (1), and skin color (1). A score of 7 usually indicates that the newborn's overall condition is good, but it should still be monitored to ensure health stabilization.

Step-by-step explanation:

Calculating the APGAR Score

The APGAR score is a quick test used to evaluate the health of a newborn immediately after birth. The score is determined by assessing five criteria: Appearance (skin color), Pulse (heart rate), Grimace (reflex), Activity (muscle tone), and Respiration. Each criterion is given a score of 0, 1, or 2. The APGAR score for the described newborn is calculated as follows:

• Pulse: Heart rate is 120/min which receives a score of 2.
• Respiration: Respiration is 24 and shallow, which would likely receive a score of 1.
• Grimace: Newborn cries when suctioned, which is a score of 2.
• Activity: The newborn has partial flexion, which would likely receive a score of 1.
• Appearance: Newborn has blush extremities indicating good circulation, but not completely pink, so the score is likely 1.

When these individual scores are summed, the total APGAR score is 7 (2+1+2+1+1), which indicates the newborn's condition is generally good, but some aspects may need close monitoring. Scores of 8 or above are considered normal, while a score below 7, like a score at 7, should be monitored to ensure the baby's health stabilizes.