What color would an infant most likely be assigned if they are pale or blue at birth in an APGAR evaluation?

In an APGAR evaluation, an infant who is pale or blue at birth would receive a color score of 0. This is because the APGAR scoring system assesses several criteria, one of which is skin color. A score of 0 indicates that the infant is cyanotic (blue) or has a very pale appearance, demonstrating inadequate oxygenation.

A score of 1 would be assigned to an infant who has a body that is pink but exhibits cyanosis in the extremities (acrocyanosis), reflecting a slightly improved oxygenation status. A score of 2 indicates the infant is well-oxygenated, appearing completely pink, which is the ideal scenario. The APGAR score aims to quickly assess the physical condition of a newborn, and the color reflects the adequacy of oxygenation, making a score of 0 appropriate for an infant presenting with pallor or cyanosis at birth.