Comparing APGAR 1 and 5 Scores by Mode of Delivery: Vaginal Delivery and Cesarean Section Delivery
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Authors
Duncan, Megan
Issue Date
2025-05
Type
Thesis
Language
en_US
Keywords
Alternative Title
Description/Abstract
The purpose of the study was to compare APGAR scores between modes of delivery. With rising numbers of mothers electing for cesarean sections with no required indication- it was questioned if this was the safest medical practice for the mother and the infant. The study analyzed APGAR 1 and 5 scores between vaginal and cesarean section deliveries. The study utilized baby’s sex, gestational age, mother’s age, and more in the study. The study was performed as a retrospective chart review at an acute care facility located in Western North Carolina. There were 72 total participants involved in the study evenly distributed between vaginal and cesarean section deliveries.
APGAR is a scoring system that observes the appearance, pulse, grimace, activity, and respirations of an infant. APGAR scores are collected immediately after birth and then again five minutes later. A high APGAR score (7-10) indicates the infant has a strong reaction to life outside of the womb. A low APGAR score (below 3) indicates immediate intervention is needed to ensure the safety and quality of life of the infant. The study did not show statistically significant findings of alpha value of 0.05, U= 787, z= -0.73, p= 0.466. However, results do show slightly higher APGAR 1 and 5 scores for infants born vaginally compared to cesarean section. The average APGAR 1 score for infants delivered vaginally was 8.02 (SD= 1.13). The average APGAR 1 score of infants delivered via cesarean section was 7.74 (SD= 1.76).