What APGAR score is given for active movement in a neonate?

The APGAR score is a quick assessment tool used to evaluate the health of a newborn immediately after birth. It assesses five criteria: Appearance, Pulse, Grimace response, Activity (muscle tone), and Respirations, each scored from 0 to 2 points.

For the criterion of Activity, a score of 2 points is assigned when there is active movement. This indicates that the neonate is exhibiting good muscle tone and responsiveness, which is a positive sign of neurological function and overall health. Infants with active movement demonstrate a strong physiologic response and usually have a good chance of adjustment to life outside the womb.

A score of 1 point for Activity would indicate some flexion of the extremities but not active movement, which is not reflective of the more vigorous movement associated with a score of 2. Similarly, a score of 0 would be given for limpness or absence of movement, indicating significantly compromised muscle tone and potential concern for neurological function. A score of 3 is not a valid score on the APGAR scale, as each individual criterion is limited to 0, 1, or 2 points.

Thus, a neonate demonstrating active movement is assigned a score of 2 points for Activity, making it