How to prepare for a video visit about Abdominal Pain (Mild) - Triage

Audience: pediatric

If your child has mild abdominal pain, a video visit with a healthcare provider can help decide the next steps. Mild pain often does not need emergency care but still deserves attention. During the video visit, the provider will ask about the pain, other symptoms, and your child's medical history. Preparing for the visit can make it easier to share important details and get helpful advice. This guide explains how to prepare, what to expect, and when to seek urgent care. Remember, telemedicine can help with many questions but cannot replace in-person exams when needed.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe or worsening abdominal pain needing immediate evaluation.
• Repeated vomiting causing dehydration or inability to keep fluids down.
• High fever or signs of serious illness such as lethargy or abdominal swelling.

What telemedicine can do

• Assessment of mild abdominal pain and related symptoms.
• Providing guidance on symptom management and home care.
• Determining if further in-person evaluation is necessary.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical exams requiring palpation or detailed abdominal assessment.
• Ordering or conducting imaging or laboratory tests directly.
• Managing emergencies or severe acute conditions.

What to Expect During the Video Visit

During the video visit, the healthcare provider will ask about your child's abdominal pain — such as where it hurts, how long it has lasted, and what makes it better or worse. They may also ask about other symptoms like fever, vomiting, or changes in bowel movements. You might be asked to show your child's abdomen on camera to look for swelling or tenderness. The provider will use this information to suggest next steps, which may include home care advice or in-person evaluation.

How to Prepare for the Video Visit

Before the visit, gather information to share with the provider:

When to Seek Emergency Care

Certain signs mean your child needs urgent medical attention. Call emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room if your child:

What Telemedicine Can and Cannot Do

Telemedicine can help:

Telemedicine cannot:

If your child’s condition changes or worsens, seek in-person care promptly.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Note the start time and pattern of your child's abdominal pain.
• List any other symptoms your child has experienced.
• Prepare a list of current medications and allergies.
• Choose a quiet, well-lit area for the video visit.
• Ensure your device is charged and connected to a stable internet.
• Have a way to show your child's abdomen on camera if needed.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider's advice on home care and symptom monitoring.
• Watch for any new or worsening symptoms.
• Schedule in-person follow-up if recommended.
• Keep a record of symptoms and any treatments given.
• Contact healthcare provider if your child's condition changes or red flags appear.

FAQs

Can a video visit diagnose the cause of my child's abdominal pain?

A video visit can help assess symptoms and guide next steps but usually cannot provide a definitive diagnosis without a physical exam or tests.

What should I do if my child's pain gets worse after the video visit?

If the pain worsens or new concerning symptoms develop, seek in-person medical care promptly or visit an emergency facility.

Is it safe to give my child pain medicine before the video visit?

You can usually give age-appropriate pain relief like acetaminophen unless advised otherwise. Inform the provider about any medicines given during the visit.

How long will the video visit take?

Most video visits for mild abdominal pain last about 15 to 30 minutes, depending on questions and examination needs.

Can I have someone else join the video visit with my child?

Yes, having another adult or family member join can be helpful for support and to share information with the provider.

Sources

1. Abdominal Pain in Children — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Abdominal Pain in Children: When to Seek Medical Care — American Academy of Pediatrics.
3. Telemedicine: What You Need to Know — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Abdominal Pain in Children: Evaluation and Management — Mayo Clinic.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your child has severe symptoms or you are concerned about their health, seek immediate medical attention.