How to prepare for a telemedicine visit about Blood in Stool - Triage

Audience: pediatric

If your child has blood in their stool, it can be concerning. Blood in stool may come from minor causes like constipation or more serious conditions. A telemedicine visit can help a healthcare provider understand your child's symptoms and decide the next steps. During the visit, you will be asked about the amount and color of blood, your child's overall health, and any other symptoms. Preparing for the visit by having this information ready can make the consultation smoother. Telemedicine is often a good first step to assess the situation, but some signs require urgent in-person care. This guide helps you know how to prepare, what to expect, and when to seek emergency help.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Large amounts of bright red blood or blood clots in stool — seek emergency care immediately.
• Signs of shock such as pale or clammy skin, rapid breathing, weakness, or fainting — call emergency services.
• Severe abdominal pain or persistent vomiting, especially if vomiting blood — go to the nearest emergency department.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of blood in stool symptoms.
• Review of medical history and symptom details.
• Advice on home care and monitoring.
• Determining need for in-person evaluation or tests.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Physical examination requiring touch or palpation.
• Emergency treatment for heavy bleeding or shock.
• Immediate laboratory or imaging tests.
• Procedures such as endoscopy or surgery.

What to Expect During the Telemedicine Visit

During the telemedicine visit, the healthcare provider will ask about your child's symptoms, including:

You may be asked to show the stool or any related rash or bruising via video if possible. The provider will use this information to decide if your child needs further tests or in-person care.

How to Prepare for the Telemedicine Visit

Prepare the following before the visit:

Having this information handy helps the provider make a better assessment.

When to Seek Immediate In-Person Care

Seek emergency care if your child has:

These signs may indicate serious conditions that need urgent medical attention.

Common Causes of Blood in Stool in Children

Blood in stool can be caused by:

Most causes are treatable, but proper evaluation is important to rule out serious issues.

What Telemedicine Can and Cannot Do

Telemedicine can:

Telemedicine cannot:

In some cases, an in-person visit will be necessary for full evaluation.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Note the first time blood was noticed and frequency.
• Observe and describe the color and amount of blood.
• List any other symptoms your child has.
• Prepare a list of current medications and allergies.
• Ensure your device supports video calls and is charged.
• Find a quiet, private place for the telemedicine visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider's advice on home care or medications.
• Monitor your child's symptoms closely after the visit.
• Schedule any recommended in-person tests or follow-up visits.
• Seek emergency care if red flag symptoms develop.
• Keep a record of any new symptoms or changes to report in follow-up.

FAQs

Is blood in my child's stool always serious?

Not always. Blood in stool can be caused by minor issues like constipation or small tears near the anus. However, it should always be evaluated by a healthcare provider to rule out serious causes.

Can I show the stool to the doctor during a telemedicine visit?

Yes, if possible, you can show the stool or affected area via video to help the provider assess the situation better.

When should I take my child to the emergency room?

If your child has large amounts of blood, signs of shock (pale skin, weakness, fainting), severe abdominal pain, or is vomiting blood, seek emergency care immediately.

What information should I have ready for the telemedicine visit?

Be ready to share when you first noticed blood, its color and amount, your child's bowel habits, any other symptoms, and a list of medications and allergies.

Can telemedicine replace an in-person visit for blood in stool?

Telemedicine is useful for initial assessment and guidance, but some cases will require an in-person visit for physical exams, tests, or treatment.

Sources

1. Blood in Stool — MedlinePlus | U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Rectal Bleeding in Children — American Academy of Pediatrics.
3. Rectal Bleeding — Mayo Clinic.
4. Evaluation of Pediatric Rectal Bleeding — National Library of Medicine.

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