Emergency Room vs Telemedicine: What Each Option Does & Doesn’t Do for Pediatric Care

Audience: pediatric

When a child is sick or hurt, parents often wonder whether to visit the emergency room (ER) or use telemedicine services. Telemedicine allows families to connect with healthcare providers through video or phone calls from home. It is helpful for many common illnesses and minor injuries, offering quick advice and treatment without travel. However, telemedicine cannot replace the ER for serious or life-threatening emergencies. The ER provides immediate, hands-on care for critical conditions that require tests, treatments, or procedures that cannot be done remotely. Knowing when to choose telemedicine or the ER can help keep children safe and ensure they get the right care at the right time.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Child has trouble breathing, wheezing, or persistent coughing — seek emergency care immediately.
• Child is unresponsive, limp, or has seizures — call emergency services or go to the ER right away.
• Severe bleeding that does not stop after applying pressure — go to the emergency room immediately.

What telemedicine can do

• Mild colds and flu symptoms
• Rashes and skin irritations
• Minor cuts and bruises
• Mild fever and ear pain
• Follow-up care for chronic conditions

What telemedicine cannot do

• Difficulty breathing or chest pain
• Severe bleeding or head injury
• High fever in infants under 3 months
• Seizures or loss of consciousness
• Sudden weakness or paralysis

What Telemedicine Can Do for Children

Telemedicine is often a good choice for mild to moderate illnesses and injuries. Providers can assess symptoms, recommend treatments, and prescribe medications when appropriate. Common issues handled well by telemedicine include colds, flu, rashes, minor cuts, and mild fevers. It can also help with follow-up visits and managing chronic conditions like asthma or allergies. Telemedicine saves time and reduces exposure to other sick people.

When to Choose the Emergency Room

The ER is best for serious or urgent problems that need immediate, hands-on care. This includes difficulty breathing, severe bleeding, head injuries, high fever in very young children, seizures, or sudden weakness. The ER has equipment and staff to perform tests, give IV fluids, or provide emergency treatments that telemedicine cannot offer. If a child’s condition worsens quickly or if you are unsure, it is safer to go to the ER.

Limitations of Telemedicine

Telemedicine cannot perform physical exams, lab tests, X-rays, or emergency procedures. It relies on what can be seen and described through video or phone. Some symptoms may need in-person evaluation to diagnose correctly. Telemedicine also depends on having a reliable internet connection and a device for video calls. If these are not available, other care options may be needed.

Preparing for a Telemedicine Visit

Before a telemedicine visit, gather important information and supplies:

After a Telemedicine Visit

Follow the healthcare provider’s advice carefully. This may include giving medications, monitoring symptoms, or scheduling follow-up visits. If symptoms get worse or new warning signs appear, seek in-person care immediately. Keep a record of the visit and any prescriptions or instructions for future reference.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Find a quiet, well-lit space with good internet connection.
• Have the child’s medical history and current medications ready.
• Prepare a list of symptoms and questions to discuss.
• Have a thermometer and any relevant medical devices handy.
• Ensure a caregiver is present to assist during the visit if needed.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the provider’s instructions carefully.
• Administer any prescribed medications as directed.
• Monitor the child’s symptoms closely for changes.
• Schedule follow-up appointments if recommended.
• Seek emergency care if red flag symptoms develop or worsen.

FAQs

Can telemedicine replace emergency room visits for children?

Telemedicine is helpful for many common and mild health issues but cannot replace the emergency room for serious or life-threatening conditions. The ER provides immediate, hands-on care that telemedicine cannot offer.

What should I do if my child’s symptoms worsen after a telemedicine visit?

If your child’s symptoms get worse or new serious symptoms appear, seek in-person care immediately. Call emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room.

Is telemedicine safe for young children?

Yes, telemedicine can be safe and effective for young children with mild illnesses. However, very young infants or children with severe symptoms should be evaluated in person.

Do I need special equipment for a telemedicine visit?

Typically, you need a smartphone, tablet, or computer with a camera and internet access. Having a thermometer and any medical devices your child uses can also be helpful.

Can telemedicine providers prescribe medications for my child?

Yes, telemedicine providers can often prescribe medications when appropriate, but this depends on the condition and local regulations.

Sources

1. Telehealth: What You Need to Know — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. When to Go to the Emergency Room for Your Child — American Academy of Pediatrics.
3. Telemedicine and Telehealth — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
4. Emergency Care for Children — Mayo Clinic.

This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical care. Telemedicine can help with many health concerns but is not a substitute for in-person evaluation and treatment when needed. If your child has emergency symptoms or you are unsure about their condition, seek immediate medical attention.