Final answer:
The Apgar score assesses a newborn's transition to the external environment through five criteria: appearance, pulse, grimace, activity, and respiration. Scores below 7 at the 5-minute mark may require medical intervention, while scores below 5 are emergencies.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Apgar score is a simple assessment given to a newborn immediately after birth. This test evaluates the infant's transition from the uterus to the external environment. The Apgar score includes five criteria: skin color ('appearance'), heart rate ('pulse'), reflex ('grimace'), muscle tone ('activity'), and respiration. Each criterion is assigned a score of 0, 1, or 2, and the total score is used to quickly determine the newborn's general condition and decide whether immediate medical attention is needed.
When a baby 'fails' the rapid evaluation or shows signs of distress, indicated by an Apgar score below 7 at the 5-minute mark, immediate steps may be necessary. These steps include ensuring the newborn's airway is clear, providing oxygen if needed, stimulating the baby to breathe, and possibly performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in the case of a very low heart rate. An Apgar score below 5 is considered an emergency situation, requiring rapid and more intensive interventions.