A full-term newborn is evaluated 1 minute after uncomplicated delivery. The baby has a vigorous cry, heart rate of 120 bpm, active motion and flexion of all extremities, pink body with cyanotic hands and feet, and grimaces/cries with nasal suctioning. What is the APGAR score?

Answer and explanation

Correct answer: D. 9

  1. Step 1: Calculate APGAR score at 1 minute:
  2. Step 2: Appearance (color): Body pink, blue extremities (acrocyanosis) = 1 point.
  3. Step 3: Pulse: Heart rate > 100 bpm (120) = 2 points.
  4. Step 4: Grimace (reflex irritability): Cries/grimaces to suction = 2 points.
  5. Step 5: Activity (muscle tone): Active motion, well flexed = 2 points.
  6. Step 6: Respiration: Strong vigorous cry = 2 points.
  7. Step 7: Total score: 1 + 2 + 2 + 2 + 2 = 9.
Answer
9.
Why not the others: '10' requires a completely pink infant without acrocyanosis; '8' deducts two points inappropriately; '7' indicates moderate depression.

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