An Apgar score is a standardized method used to quickly assess the health of a newborn baby immediately after delivery. The score is based on five factors: heart rate, respiratory effort, muscle tone, reflex irritability, and skin color. Each factor is given a score of 0, 1, or 2, and the scores are added to give a total score out of 10. A score of 7 to 10 is considered normal, while a score below 7 may indicate that the baby needs additional medical attention and monitoring. The Apgar score is usually given at one minute and again at five minutes after birth.