Neonatal factors associated with immediate low Apgar score in newborn babies in an intermediate hospital in Namibia: a case control study.

Introduction: Apgar score is conducted to a baby immediately after birth checking how the baby tolerated the birth process and outside the uterus.

Objectives: To describe the neonatal factors associated with immediate low Apgar score and analysing the associations among factors associated with low Apgar score in new-born babies.

Methods: A quantitative, case-control, descriptive research design was used.

Maternal factors associated with immediate low Apgar score in newborn babies at an intermediate hospital in Northern Namibia.

Background: All newborn infants are required to undergo the Apgar score/assessment immediately after birth and again at five minutes. This vital examination is performed to determine how well the infant is adjusting to the birthing process and the outside environment. Some newborns may have a normal Apgar score, while others may have a low score.