How to prepare for a video visit about Kidney Stone (Suspected) - Triage

Audience: pediatric

If your child may have a kidney stone, a video visit with a healthcare provider can help decide the next steps. Kidney stones are hard deposits that can cause pain and other symptoms. During the video visit, the provider will ask about your child's symptoms, medical history, and may guide you on what to watch for. This visit helps decide if your child needs urgent care or tests like imaging. Preparing well for the video visit ensures the provider gets the information needed to support your child's health. Remember, this guidance is educational and not a diagnosis. If your child has severe pain, fever, or other serious signs, seek in-person care immediately.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe, constant pain that does not improve with home care — seek emergency care immediately.
• High fever (above 38°C or 100.4°F) with pain — seek urgent medical evaluation.
• Inability to urinate or blood in urine — contact healthcare provider or emergency services promptly.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial symptom assessment and history taking for suspected kidney stones.
• Providing guidance on symptom monitoring and home care measures.
• Deciding if urgent in-person evaluation or tests are needed.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical exams that require hands-on assessment.
• Ordering or conducting imaging tests like ultrasounds or CT scans.
• Managing severe pain or complications that need emergency care.

What is a Kidney Stone?

Kidney stones are small, hard mineral deposits that form inside the kidneys. They can cause pain when they move through the urinary tract. In children, symptoms may include belly or side pain, blood in urine, or trouble urinating.

Preparing for the Video Visit

Before the visit, gather information about your child's symptoms, such as when the pain started, where it hurts, and any changes in urination. Have a list of any medicines your child takes and any allergies. Make sure your device has a good internet connection and a quiet space for the visit.

What to Expect During the Video Visit

The healthcare provider will ask questions about your child's symptoms and health history. They may ask you to show your child's belly or side on camera. The provider will decide if your child needs tests or urgent care based on the information shared.

When to Seek Immediate Care

If your child has very bad pain that does not get better, a high fever, vomiting that won’t stop, or cannot urinate, seek emergency medical care right away. These can be signs of a serious problem.

Follow-Up and Next Steps

After the video visit, follow the provider's advice. This may include getting imaging tests, drinking more fluids, or visiting a clinic or hospital. Keep track of your child's symptoms and contact the provider if things get worse.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Find a quiet, well-lit space for the video visit.
• Ensure your device (phone, tablet, or computer) is charged and connected to the internet.
• Write down your child's symptoms: when they started, how severe they are, and any changes.
• List any medications your child is taking and any allergies.
• Have a way to take notes during the visit.
• Be ready to show your child's belly or side on camera if asked.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider's instructions carefully.
• Schedule any recommended tests or in-person visits.
• Give your child plenty of fluids unless advised otherwise.
• Monitor your child's symptoms and watch for any red flags.
• Contact the provider if symptoms worsen or new symptoms appear.

FAQs

Can a video visit diagnose a kidney stone in my child?

A video visit can help the healthcare provider understand your child's symptoms and decide if further tests are needed. However, diagnosis often requires imaging tests that cannot be done during a video visit.

What should I do if my child has severe pain during the video visit?

If your child has severe pain that does not improve, seek emergency medical care immediately. The video visit can guide you on when urgent care is needed but cannot replace in-person emergency treatment.

How can I help my child feel more comfortable before the video visit?

Try to keep your child calm and comfortable. You can offer water if allowed and encourage them to rest. Having a familiar toy or blanket nearby may also help.

Will the provider prescribe pain medicine during the video visit?

The provider may discuss pain management options, but prescriptions depend on your location's regulations and the provider's assessment. Sometimes, they may recommend over-the-counter medicines or advise in-person evaluation.

What if I don't have good internet for the video visit?

If video is not possible, ask if a phone call visit is an option. If neither is possible, seek in-person care as needed, especially if symptoms are severe.

Sources

1. Kidney Stones — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Kidney Stones in Children — American Academy of Pediatrics.
3. Kidney Stones: Symptoms and Causes — Mayo Clinic.
4. Kidney Stones — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

This information is for education and triage guidance only. It is not a substitute for professional medical diagnosis or treatment. If your child has severe symptoms or you are concerned about their health, seek in-person medical care promptly.