Which of the following does NOT affect the Apgar score?

The Apgar score is a quick assessment tool used to evaluate the health status of newborns immediately after birth. It comprises five criteria: heart rate, respiratory effort, muscle tone, reflex response, and color, each rated on a scale from 0 to 2, with a maximum total score of 10.

Weight, although an important aspect of a newborn's health, is not part of the Apgar assessment. The Apgar score specifically measures immediate physiological health and responsiveness, which are crucial in determining the need for medical intervention right after birth. Heart rate assesses how well the heart of the newborn is functioning, muscle tone indicates their level of central nervous system functioning, and color reflects their oxygenation and overall circulation status. Since weight is not evaluated in this assessment, it does not influence the Apgar score.