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

Audience: pediatric

If your child might have pancreatitis, a video visit with a healthcare provider can help decide what to do next. Pancreatitis means the pancreas, an organ that helps with digestion and blood sugar control, is inflamed. Symptoms often include belly pain, nausea, and vomiting. During a 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. Preparing well for the video visit can make it easier to share important information. Remember, telemedicine can help with advice and triage but cannot replace emergency care or detailed physical exams. If your child has severe pain, difficulty breathing, or other serious signs, seek emergency care right away.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe and worsening abdominal pain — seek emergency care immediately.
• Vomiting blood or passing bloody stools — go to the emergency room right away.
• Difficulty breathing or chest pain — call emergency services without delay.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial symptom assessment and triage guidance.
• Review of medical history and current symptoms.
• Advice on when to seek emergency care.
• Providing education about pancreatitis and care steps.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing a physical examination or imaging tests.
• Administering emergency treatments or procedures.
• Diagnosing or managing severe complications in real time.
• Prescribing controlled medications without in-person evaluation.

What is Pancreatitis in Children?

Pancreatitis is when the pancreas becomes inflamed. The pancreas helps with digestion and controls blood sugar. In children, pancreatitis can cause belly pain, nausea, vomiting, and sometimes fever. It can be caused by infections, injuries, certain medicines, or other health problems.

What to Expect During the Video Visit

The healthcare provider will ask about your child's symptoms, such as when the pain started, how severe it is, and any other signs like vomiting or fever. They may ask about your child's medical history and any medicines they take. You might be asked to show your child's belly on camera to help describe where the pain is.

How to Prepare for the Video Visit

\1

When to Seek Emergency Care

If your child has any of these signs, go to the emergency room immediately:

After the Video Visit: What Comes Next

Your healthcare provider may suggest tests like blood work or imaging to check the pancreas. They might recommend hospital care if your child is very sick. Follow their instructions carefully. Keep track of any new or worsening symptoms and contact your provider if you have concerns.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Choose a quiet, well-lit space for the video call.
• Have a list of your child's symptoms with start dates.
• Prepare a list of current medications and dosages.
• Keep a notebook or device ready to take notes.
• Ensure your internet connection and device camera work properly.
• Have your child's identification and health insurance information available if needed.

After your tele-visit

• Follow any instructions given by the healthcare provider carefully.
• Schedule any recommended lab tests or imaging studies promptly.
• Monitor your child's symptoms and note any changes.
• Seek emergency care if red flag symptoms appear.
• Keep a record of all medical advice and appointments for follow-up.

FAQs

What causes pancreatitis in children?

Pancreatitis in children can be caused by infections, injuries to the abdomen, certain medications, or underlying medical conditions. Sometimes, the exact cause is not found.

Can a video visit diagnose pancreatitis?

A video visit can help assess symptoms and decide if your child needs urgent care or further testing, but it cannot confirm a diagnosis. Tests like blood work and imaging are usually needed.

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

If your child's pain worsens, especially if it becomes severe or is accompanied by vomiting blood, difficulty breathing, or other serious signs, seek emergency medical care immediately.

Is pancreatitis in children serious?

Pancreatitis can range from mild to severe. It often requires medical attention to manage symptoms and prevent complications. Early care can improve outcomes.

Sources

1. Pancreatitis in Children — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Acute Pancreatitis in Children: Clinical Features and Management — National Library of Medicine.
3. Pancreatitis — Mayo Clinic.
4. Pancreatitis in Children: Symptoms and Treatment — American Academy of Pediatrics.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational and triage purposes only. It is not a substitute for in-person evaluation, diagnosis, or treatment by a healthcare professional. If your child has severe symptoms or emergency signs, seek immediate medical care.