What is the purpose of the Apgar score?

The Apgar score is specifically designed to evaluate the newborn's physical condition immediately after birth, with assessments typically conducted at one minute and again at five minutes. This scoring system considers five criteria: appearance, pulse, grimace response, activity, and respiration, each scored between 0 and 2, with a maximum possible score of 10. By focusing on these immediate physical health indicators, the Apgar score helps healthcare providers quickly determine how well the newborn is transitioning to life outside the womb and if they require any immediate medical intervention.

The other options, while related to aspects of maternal or neonatal care, do not encompass the primary function of the Apgar score, which is to assess the newborn's initial health rather than maternal health, the need for intensive care, or genetic disorders.