How to prepare for a video visit about High Blood Pressure (Hypertension) - Follow-up

Audience: pediatric

If your child has high blood pressure (also called hypertension), regular follow-up visits with a healthcare provider are important. A video visit is a way to talk with the doctor or nurse using a computer, tablet, or phone. This guide helps you get ready for a video visit about your child's high blood pressure. It explains what information to gather, how to prepare your child, and what to expect during the visit. You will learn what signs need urgent care and what telemedicine can and cannot do for managing high blood pressure. Preparing well can help the healthcare provider understand how your child is doing and decide the best next steps for care. Remember, this guide is for education only and does not replace advice from your healthcare provider.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Very high blood pressure readings (e.g., systolic over 180 mmHg or diastolic over 120 mmHg)
• Severe headache, chest pain, or difficulty breathing
• Sudden weakness, numbness, confusion, or trouble speaking

What telemedicine can do

• Reviewing home blood pressure measurements
• Discussing medication side effects
• Providing education on managing hypertension
• Adjusting treatment plans based on reported symptoms

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical examinations requiring equipment
• Managing emergency symptoms
• Conducting diagnostic tests such as blood or urine tests

What to Have Ready Before the Video Visit

Gather your child's recent blood pressure readings, if you have a home monitor. Write down any new symptoms, side effects from medicines, or questions you want to ask. Have a list of your child's current medicines, including doses and how often they are taken. Find a quiet, well-lit place with good internet connection for the video call. Make sure your child's device camera and microphone work properly.

How to Prepare Your Child for the Visit

Explain to your child what the video visit is and why it is important. Encourage them to share how they feel and any concerns. Help them sit comfortably and stay calm during the call. If your child is very young, you may need to assist with showing the healthcare provider any symptoms or helping with measurements.

What Happens During the Video Visit

The healthcare provider will review your child's blood pressure readings and ask about symptoms or medicine side effects. They may guide you on how to check your child's pulse or blood pressure at home. The provider will discuss any changes needed in treatment and answer your questions. Sometimes, they may recommend an in-person visit for further tests or care.

When to Seek Urgent Care

If your child has very high blood pressure readings, severe headaches, chest pain, difficulty breathing, sudden weakness, or confusion, seek emergency medical care immediately. These are serious signs that need prompt attention and cannot be managed through a video visit.

What Telemedicine Can and Cannot Do for Pediatric Hypertension

Telemedicine can:

Telemedicine cannot:

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Collect recent blood pressure readings taken at home
• List all current medications with doses and schedules
• Write down any new symptoms or concerns
• Test your device's camera and microphone before the visit
• Find a quiet, well-lit place with good internet connection
• Explain the visit to your child and prepare them to participate

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider's instructions for medication changes
• Schedule any recommended in-person visits or tests
• Monitor your child's blood pressure regularly as advised
• Watch for any new or worsening symptoms and seek care if needed
• Keep a record of symptoms and blood pressure for future visits

FAQs

Can I use any device to measure my child's blood pressure at home?

It's best to use a blood pressure monitor that is designed for children and fits their arm size. Ask your healthcare provider for recommendations on reliable devices.

How often should my child's blood pressure be checked at home?

Your healthcare provider will advise how often to check your child's blood pressure. Often, readings are taken daily or several times a week during follow-up periods.

What if my child feels anxious during the video visit?

Try to keep your child calm by explaining what will happen and staying with them during the visit. You can also practice a video call beforehand to help them get comfortable.

Can the doctor prescribe new medicines during a video visit?

Yes, healthcare providers can often adjust or prescribe medicines during a video visit based on your child's condition and reported symptoms.

When should I ask for an in-person visit instead of a video visit?

If your child has new or worsening symptoms, needs physical exams, lab tests, or if the provider recommends it, an in-person visit may be necessary.

Sources

1. High Blood Pressure in Children and Teens — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. High Blood Pressure (Hypertension) in Children — American Academy of Pediatrics.
3. Hypertension in Children and Adolescents — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Telehealth: What to Expect During Your Virtual Visit — Mayo Clinic.

This telemedicine guide is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare provider's advice and seek in-person care when needed.