How to Prepare for a Video Visit About RSV (Suspected) - Triage

Audience: adult

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common virus that can cause cold-like symptoms and sometimes more serious breathing problems. If you or someone you care for may have RSV, a video visit with a healthcare provider can help decide the next steps. This guide explains how to get ready for your virtual appointment, what to expect, and when to seek urgent care. Preparing ahead can make your visit smoother and help the provider understand your symptoms better. Remember, telemedicine can help with advice and triage but is not a replacement for emergency care or in-person exams when needed.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing that worsens — seek emergency care immediately.
• Bluish color of lips, face, or nails — call emergency services right away.
• Extreme drowsiness, confusion, or inability to stay awake — get urgent medical help.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of mild to moderate RSV symptoms.
• Advice on symptom management at home.
• Determining if in-person care or testing is needed.
• Follow-up questions and monitoring progress.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Emergency situations with severe breathing difficulty.
• Physical examinations requiring hands-on assessment.
• Diagnostic testing such as chest X-rays or lab tests.
• Administering treatments or oxygen therapy.

What is RSV and Who Gets It?

RSV is a virus that affects the lungs and breathing passages. It often causes symptoms like a runny nose, cough, and fever. While many people recover at home, RSV can be more serious for older adults, people with weakened immune systems, and those with lung or heart conditions.

Preparing for Your Video Visit

Before your appointment, find a quiet, well-lit space with a good internet connection. Have a list of symptoms, their start date, and any other health conditions ready. If possible, have a thermometer and a way to measure breathing rate nearby. Write down any questions you want to ask your healthcare provider.

What to Expect During the Video Visit

The healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms, medical history, and any recent exposures. They may ask you to show your breathing or cough on camera. Based on this, they will advise if you need testing, treatment, or in-person care. They can also give tips on managing symptoms at home.

When to Seek Emergency Care

If you notice severe shortness of breath, chest pain, bluish lips or face, difficulty waking up, or confusion, seek emergency medical care immediately. These signs mean urgent in-person evaluation is needed.

How Telemedicine Can Help

Telemedicine allows you to get medical advice without leaving home. It can help assess your symptoms, provide guidance on care, and decide if you need to visit a clinic or hospital. It is especially useful for mild to moderate symptoms and for follow-up questions.

Limitations of Telemedicine for RSV

Telemedicine cannot perform physical exams or tests like chest X-rays or lab tests. It cannot treat severe breathing problems or emergencies. If your condition worsens or you have red-flag symptoms, you should seek in-person care promptly.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Choose a quiet, well-lit space with a stable internet connection.
• Have a thermometer and a way to count breaths per minute ready if possible.
• Write down your symptoms, including when they started.
• Note any other medical conditions or medications you take.
• Prepare a list of questions or concerns to discuss.
• Make sure your device’s camera and microphone work properly.
• Have a family member or friend nearby if you might need assistance.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider’s advice on symptom management.
• Monitor your symptoms closely and note any changes.
• Schedule follow-up visits if recommended.
• Seek immediate care if red-flag symptoms develop.
• Keep a record of any new symptoms or concerns to report later.

FAQs

What symptoms suggest I should have a video visit for suspected RSV?

If you have cold-like symptoms such as cough, runny nose, mild fever, or mild difficulty breathing, a video visit can help assess your condition and provide advice.

Can a healthcare provider diagnose RSV over a video visit?

A definitive diagnosis usually requires testing that cannot be done via video. However, providers can assess symptoms and decide if testing or in-person care is needed.

What should I do if my symptoms get worse after the video visit?

If you develop severe breathing difficulties, chest pain, bluish lips or face, or confusion, seek emergency medical care immediately. For other worsening symptoms, contact your healthcare provider promptly.

Is it safe to manage RSV symptoms at home?

Many people with RSV recover at home with rest, fluids, and symptom relief. Your provider can guide you on safe home care and when to seek further help.

Can I get treated for RSV during a video visit?

There is no specific antiviral treatment for RSV in most cases. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms. Severe cases may require in-person care and supportive treatments.

Sources

1. Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection (RSV) — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
2. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
3. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Infection — Mayo Clinic.
4. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) — Merck Manuals Consumer Version.

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