How to Prepare for a Video Visit About Anemia (Suspected) - Triage

Audience: pediatric

If your child may have anemia, a video visit with a healthcare provider can help decide the next steps. Anemia means the blood has fewer healthy red blood cells than usual, which can cause tiredness, pale skin, or other symptoms. During the video visit, the provider will ask about your child's symptoms, health history, and diet. They may guide you on simple checks at home and discuss if lab tests are needed. This visit helps decide if your child needs urgent care or can be safely monitored. Preparing well for the video visit can make it more effective. Remember, this guidance is educational and not a diagnosis. If your child has serious symptoms, seek in-person care immediately.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Child has difficulty breathing or is breathing very fast — seek emergency care immediately.
• Child is very weak, unable to sit or stand, or appears confused — get urgent in-person care.
• Child’s lips, face, or skin look very pale or bluish — go to emergency services right away.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial symptom discussion and history taking for suspected anemia.
• Visual assessment of pallor or breathing via video.
• Guidance on home monitoring and when to seek urgent care.
• Advice on obtaining blood tests if needed.
• Education about anemia causes and nutrition.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Physical examination requiring touch (e.g., checking heart or abdomen).
• Performing blood tests or other lab work.
• Emergency treatment for severe anemia or complications.
• Diagnosing complex causes of anemia without tests.
• Administering treatments or transfusions.

What is Suspected Anemia in Children?

Anemia happens when the body does not have enough healthy red blood cells to carry oxygen well. In children, this can cause tiredness, weakness, pale skin, or fast heartbeat. Causes vary and may include poor nutrition, infections, or other health issues. A healthcare provider uses your child's symptoms and history to decide if anemia might be present and what tests or care are needed.

How Telemedicine Can Help

A video visit lets you talk with a healthcare provider from home. They can ask about your child's symptoms, growth, diet, and any other health concerns. They may watch your child on camera for signs like paleness or rapid breathing. The provider can advise if your child needs blood tests or urgent care. Telemedicine offers a safe, convenient way to start evaluation but cannot replace some physical exams or lab tests.

Preparing for the Video Visit

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

What to Expect During the Visit

Expect the provider to ask questions about your child's energy levels, eating habits, and any symptoms like dizziness or shortness of breath. They may ask you to show your child's skin or gums on camera. The provider will explain if blood tests are needed and how to get them. They will also discuss when to seek urgent care and how to monitor your child at home.

When to Seek Immediate Care

If your child has any of these signs, get emergency care right away:

Telemedicine cannot replace emergency care in these situations.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Write down your child’s symptoms and when they started.
• List all medicines, vitamins, and supplements your child is taking.
• Prepare to describe your child’s diet and any recent changes.
• Choose a quiet, well-lit area with a stable internet connection for the video call.
• Have a flashlight or phone light ready to show your child’s skin or mouth if asked.
• Ensure your child is nearby and comfortable during the visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow any instructions given by the healthcare provider, such as scheduling blood tests.
• Watch your child for any worsening symptoms or new signs listed under red flags.
• Keep track of your child’s energy levels, appetite, and any changes.
• Contact your healthcare provider if you have questions or concerns after the visit.
• Seek emergency care immediately if any red flag symptoms develop.
• Maintain a balanced diet rich in iron and other nutrients as advised.

FAQs

What causes anemia in children?

Anemia in children can be caused by not getting enough iron or vitamins, infections, chronic diseases, or sometimes inherited conditions. Poor diet is a common cause, but other health issues may also lead to anemia.

Can anemia be diagnosed during a video visit?

A video visit can help a provider decide if anemia is likely based on symptoms and history, but blood tests are usually needed to confirm the diagnosis and find the cause.

What tests might my child need?

Your child may need blood tests to check red blood cell counts, iron levels, and other markers. These tests usually require a visit to a lab or clinic.

How is anemia treated in children?

Treatment depends on the cause. It may include iron or vitamin supplements, dietary changes, or treating underlying illnesses. Severe cases might need more advanced care.

When should I take my child to the emergency room?

If your child has trouble breathing, severe weakness, very pale or bluish skin or lips, confusion, or heavy bleeding, seek emergency care immediately.

Sources

1. Anemia - MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
2. Anemia in Children - American Academy of Pediatrics — American Academy of Pediatrics.
3. Iron-Deficiency Anemia - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) — U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
4. Anemia - Mayo Clinic — 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.