Red flags & when to go in person for Pancreatitis (Suspected) - Triage

Audience: pediatric

Pancreatitis in children is an inflammation of the pancreas that can cause stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting. It may happen suddenly or be ongoing. If you think your child might have pancreatitis, telemedicine can help you understand symptoms and decide if urgent care is needed. However, some signs mean your child should be seen in person right away. These include very severe belly pain, persistent vomiting, fever, or signs of dehydration. Telemedicine can guide you on managing mild symptoms and when to seek emergency care. Always watch for red flags and do not delay in-person care if your child’s condition worsens. This guide helps caregivers recognize warning signs and know when to go to a clinic or hospital.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Very severe or worsening abdominal pain not relieved by usual measures — seek emergency care immediately.
• Persistent vomiting that prevents drinking fluids — go to an emergency department.
• High fever (above 38°C or 100.4°F) with other symptoms — urgent medical evaluation needed.

What telemedicine can do

• Assessing symptoms and advising on urgency of care.
• Providing guidance on symptom management at home for mild cases.
• Answering questions about pancreatitis and general health advice.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical examinations or diagnostic tests.
• Administering emergency treatments or procedures.
• Diagnosing pancreatitis definitively or prescribing complex treatments.

What is Pancreatitis in Children?

Pancreatitis is when the pancreas, an organ behind the stomach, becomes inflamed. It helps with digestion and blood sugar control. In children, pancreatitis can cause belly pain, nausea, vomiting, and sometimes fever. It can happen quickly (acute) or last a long time (chronic). Causes may include infections, injury, medications, or other health conditions.

Common Symptoms to Watch For

Children with pancreatitis often have:

If your child has these symptoms, especially if they are severe or worsening, medical evaluation is important.

Red Flags That Need In-Person Care

Certain signs mean your child needs urgent medical attention:

If you notice any of these, go to the nearest emergency department or call emergency services.

How Telemedicine Can Help

Telemedicine can provide guidance on symptoms, help decide if in-person care is needed, and offer advice on managing mild symptoms at home. A healthcare provider can answer questions and recommend next steps. However, telemedicine cannot perform physical exams or tests needed to diagnose or treat pancreatitis.

Preparing for a Telemedicine Visit

Before your tele-visit, have ready:

This information helps the provider give the best advice.

After the Telemedicine Visit

Follow the provider’s instructions carefully. This may include:

If symptoms worsen or new red flags appear, seek in-person care immediately.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Note the start time and details of your child's symptoms.
• List all current medications and medical conditions.
• Ensure a quiet, well-lit space for the tele-visit.
• Have a device ready with camera and microphone for video calls.
• Prepare to describe or show your child's abdomen if needed.
• Have a thermometer to check temperature if possible.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider’s advice on symptom monitoring.
• Give fluids and medications as recommended.
• Watch closely for any red flags or worsening symptoms.
• Seek in-person care if advised or if symptoms worsen.
• Schedule follow-up appointments as recommended.

FAQs

What causes pancreatitis in children?

Pancreatitis can be caused by infections, injuries, certain medications, or other health problems. Sometimes the exact cause is not known.

Can pancreatitis be treated at home?

Mild cases may be managed at home with guidance from a healthcare provider, including rest, fluids, and pain relief. However, severe symptoms require medical care.

When should I take my child to the hospital?

If your child has very severe belly pain, cannot keep fluids down, has a high fever, or shows signs of dehydration, go to the hospital immediately.

Is pancreatitis common in children?

Pancreatitis is less common in children than adults but can still occur. Early recognition and treatment are important to prevent complications.

Can telemedicine diagnose pancreatitis?

Telemedicine can help assess symptoms and advise on next steps but cannot diagnose pancreatitis without physical exams and tests.

Sources

1. Pancreatitis in Children — MedlinePlus | U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
2. Acute Pancreatitis in Children: A Review — National Library of Medicine.
3. Pancreatitis — Mayo Clinic.
4. Pancreatitis in Children: Clinical Features and Management — American Academy of Pediatrics.

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 red flags, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Always follow the advice of your healthcare provider.