When is the Apgar score typically evaluated after a newborn is delivered?

The Apgar score is a quick assessment used to evaluate the physical condition of a newborn immediately after birth and to determine if any immediate medical intervention is required. It is typically assessed at one minute and again at five minutes after delivery.

The one-minute score helps to determine how well the newborn tolerated the birthing process, while the five-minute score assesses how well the newborn is doing outside the womb. This two-time evaluation allows healthcare providers to monitor the newborn’s progress and make decisions about care in the early stages of life.

Performing the Apgar scoring only at birth and again after ten minutes would not provide the timely information necessary for immediate care. Evaluating every 15 minutes for the first hour or only after one hour would delay critical assessments needed for the newborn’s health within the first moments of life. Therefore, the appropriate timing of one and five minutes post-birth is crucial for effective monitoring and intervention when necessary.