What Happens After a Telemedicine Visit for Bronchiolitis (Infant) - Triage

Audience: adult

Bronchiolitis is a common lung infection in infants that causes swelling and mucus in the small airways of the lungs. After a telemedicine visit, caregivers will usually receive guidance on how to watch for signs of worsening symptoms and how to care for the infant at home. Treatment often focuses on keeping the baby comfortable, ensuring they stay hydrated, and monitoring breathing. Telemedicine providers can help decide if the infant needs urgent in-person care or hospital evaluation. It's important to follow the advice given during the visit and to seek emergency care if the baby's breathing becomes very difficult or if other danger signs appear. This guidance helps families understand what to expect after the tele-visit and how to keep their infant safe while recovering from bronchiolitis.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Infant has blue or gray lips, face, or fingertips — call emergency services immediately.
• Breathing is very fast, labored, or the infant is struggling to breathe — seek urgent medical care.
• Infant is unable to feed or has signs of dehydration (few or no wet diapers, dry mouth) — contact healthcare provider promptly.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of mild to moderate bronchiolitis symptoms.
• Providing guidance on home care and symptom monitoring.
• Determining if urgent in-person evaluation or hospital care is needed.
• Answering caregiver questions about the illness and treatment.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical exams requiring hands-on assessment (e.g., lung auscultation).
• Administering emergency treatments or oxygen therapy.
• Diagnosing severe complications or other conditions requiring immediate hospital care.
• Providing prescriptions for medications that require in-person evaluation in some regions.

Understanding Bronchiolitis in Infants

Bronchiolitis is an infection that affects the smallest airways in a baby's lungs, usually caused by viruses like respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). It often leads to coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. Most infants recover with supportive care at home, but some may need closer monitoring or hospital care if symptoms worsen.

What to Expect After Your Telemedicine Visit

After the telemedicine visit, the healthcare provider will review your infant's symptoms and may give you instructions on how to care for your baby at home. This often includes tips on feeding, keeping the baby comfortable, and watching for signs that need urgent attention. The provider may also schedule a follow-up appointment or recommend an in-person evaluation if needed.

Home Care Tips for Bronchiolitis

\1

When to Seek Emergency Care

Watch for red flags such as:

If any of these occur, seek emergency medical care immediately.

Follow-Up and Monitoring

Your healthcare provider may recommend follow-up visits to check on your infant’s progress. Keep track of symptoms and any changes in breathing or behavior. If symptoms worsen or new concerns arise, contact your healthcare provider promptly.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Have your infant’s medical history and current symptoms ready to discuss.
• Prepare a list of questions or concerns you want to address.
• Ensure you have a quiet, well-lit place for the tele-visit.
• Have a way to measure and report your infant’s temperature if possible.
• Be ready to show your infant to the provider via video if requested.
• Have any current medications or treatments your infant is receiving available to share.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the home care instructions provided by your healthcare provider.
• Monitor your infant closely for any changes in breathing, feeding, or behavior.
• Keep your infant hydrated and comfortable.
• Use a humidifier or nasal suctioning as recommended.
• Schedule and attend any follow-up visits as advised.
• Seek emergency care immediately if red flag symptoms develop.

FAQs

Can bronchiolitis be treated with antibiotics?

Bronchiolitis is usually caused by viruses, so antibiotics, which treat bacterial infections, are typically not effective. Treatment focuses on supportive care such as hydration and easing breathing.

How long does bronchiolitis usually last in infants?

Symptoms often last about 1 to 2 weeks. Most infants gradually improve with home care, but some may take longer to recover fully.

Is it safe to care for my infant with bronchiolitis at home?

Many infants with mild bronchiolitis can be safely cared for at home with close monitoring. Follow your healthcare provider’s advice and watch for any signs of worsening symptoms.

When should I call my healthcare provider after the telemedicine visit?

Contact your provider if your infant’s breathing worsens, feeding decreases, fever persists or rises, or if you have any new concerns about their condition.

Can other children or adults catch bronchiolitis from my infant?

Bronchiolitis is contagious, especially in young children. Good hand hygiene and avoiding close contact with others while your infant is sick can help reduce spread.

Sources

1. Bronchiolitis — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Bronchiolitis: Symptoms and Causes — Mayo Clinic.
3. Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection (RSV) — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Bronchiolitis in Children: Clinical Practice Guidelines — American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your infant's symptoms worsen or you have concerns about their health, seek immediate medical attention.