Virginia Apgar

Virginia Apgar was an American pediatrician and anesthesiologist best known for creating the Apgar Score in 1952. This simple, quick assessment measures a newborn's health immediately after birth, evaluating five criteria: Appearance, Pulse, Grimace response, Activity, and Respiration. Each category scores from 0 to 2, with a total possible score of 10. The Apgar Score helps doctors determine if a newborn needs immediate medical attention. Apgar's work significantly improved neonatal care, influencing how newborns are monitored and treated in the critical moments after delivery. Her contributions have saved countless lives and continue to be vital in obstetric practice.