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

Audience: pediatric

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common virus that can cause cold-like symptoms in children but sometimes leads to more serious breathing problems. If your child shows signs of RSV, a video visit with a healthcare provider can help assess their condition safely from home. During the visit, the provider will ask about symptoms like coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. Preparing for the call by gathering important information and observing your child's breathing can help the visit go smoothly. Remember, while telemedicine can guide you on next steps, it cannot replace in-person exams or emergency care when needed. If your child shows danger signs such as trouble breathing or blue lips, seek emergency care immediately. This guide helps you get ready for a video visit about suspected RSV and understand what telemedicine can and cannot do.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Child struggling to breathe or showing very fast breathing — seek emergency care immediately.
• Blue or gray color around lips or face — call emergency services right away.
• Child is unresponsive or very hard to wake — get urgent medical help.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of mild to moderate RSV symptoms.
• Guidance on home care and symptom monitoring.
• Advice on when to seek in-person or emergency care.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Physical examination requiring hands-on assessment.
• Emergency interventions for severe breathing problems.
• Diagnostic tests like chest X-rays or lab tests.

What is RSV and why does it matter?

RSV is a virus that often causes mild cold symptoms in children, like a runny nose and cough. However, it can sometimes lead to bronchiolitis or pneumonia, especially in babies and young children. Recognizing symptoms early helps ensure your child gets the right care.

Signs and symptoms to observe before your video visit

Watch for symptoms such as:

Note these symptoms and when they started to share with the healthcare provider.

How to prepare for the video visit

Before the call:

What to expect during the video visit

The healthcare provider will ask about your child's symptoms and may ask you to show your child's breathing and behavior. They will assess the severity and advise on care steps. They may recommend in-person care if needed.

When to seek emergency care immediately

If your child shows any of these danger signs, go to the emergency room or call emergency services right away:

After the video visit: next steps

Follow the healthcare provider's advice carefully. This may include home care instructions, medications, or scheduling an in-person visit. Monitor your child closely and seek help if symptoms worsen.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Choose a quiet, well-lit space for the video visit.
• Have your child's symptom details ready, including when they started.
• List any medications or treatments your child is currently using.
• Be prepared to show your child's breathing and behavior on camera.
• Write down any questions or concerns to discuss with the provider.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider's care instructions carefully.
• Monitor your child's symptoms and breathing closely.
• Keep track of any new or worsening symptoms.
• Schedule an in-person visit if advised by the provider.
• Seek emergency care if danger signs appear.

FAQs

What is RSV and who is most at risk?

RSV is a virus that causes respiratory infections, especially in young children and infants. Babies, premature infants, and children with certain health conditions may be at higher risk for severe illness.

Can a doctor diagnose RSV during a video visit?

A doctor can assess symptoms and guide care during a video visit but cannot perform physical exams or tests needed for a definitive diagnosis. Sometimes, in-person evaluation is necessary.

How can I help my child feel better at home?

You can help by keeping your child comfortable, ensuring they drink fluids, using a humidifier if advised, and following any medication instructions from your healthcare provider.

When should I call emergency services for my child?

Call emergency services if your child has trouble breathing, blue lips or face, is very sleepy or unresponsive, or shows signs of severe dehydration.

Is RSV contagious?

Yes, RSV spreads easily through droplets from coughs or sneezes and by touching contaminated surfaces. Good hand hygiene and avoiding close contact with sick people can help prevent spread.

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. RSV Infection in Children — American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).
4. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) — Mayo Clinic.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational and triage purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your child has severe symptoms or emergency signs, seek immediate medical attention.