Red Flags & When to Go In Person for Diarrhea in Child - Triage

Audience: pediatric

Diarrhea in children is common and often caused by infections or dietary changes. Most cases improve with simple care at home, such as staying hydrated and resting. Telemedicine can help assess symptoms and guide parents on home care. However, some signs mean the child needs prompt in-person medical attention to prevent complications. These include signs of dehydration, persistent high fever, blood in stool, or severe abdominal pain. Knowing when to seek in-person care is important for your child's safety. This guide helps you understand red flags, what telemedicine can manage, and how to prepare for a virtual visit. Always watch your child closely and trust your instincts. When in doubt, seek emergency care immediately.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Signs of dehydration such as dry mouth, no tears when crying, sunken eyes, very sleepy or irritable behavior, or fewer than 4 wet diapers in 24 hours — seek urgent medical care.
• Persistent high fever above 39°C (102°F) lasting more than 2 days — see a healthcare provider in person.
• Blood or pus in the stool, severe abdominal pain, or vomiting that prevents fluid intake — go to emergency care immediately.

What telemedicine can do

• Assessment of mild diarrhea symptoms.
• Guidance on hydration and diet management.
• Advice on monitoring symptoms and when to seek in-person care.
• Follow-up for improving symptoms after initial assessment.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Severe dehydration requiring intravenous fluids.
• Persistent high fever needing physical examination.
• Blood in stool or severe abdominal pain needing diagnostic tests.
• Vomiting that prevents fluid intake and causes risk of dehydration.

Understanding Diarrhea in Children

Diarrhea means frequent, loose, or watery stools. It can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or parasites, and sometimes by food reactions or medicines. Most diarrhea in children is mild and clears up in a few days with proper care. Keeping your child hydrated is the most important step. Watch for changes in behavior, appetite, and urine output.

When to Use Telemedicine for Diarrhea

Telemedicine can help you check your child's symptoms, get advice on hydration and diet, and decide if in-person care is needed. It is useful for mild diarrhea without worrying signs. A healthcare provider can guide you on home care, signs to watch for, and when to return for more help.

Red Flags That Need In-Person Care

Certain symptoms require urgent medical evaluation:

If any of these occur, seek in-person care promptly.

How to Prepare for a Telemedicine Visit

Before your virtual appointment:

This information helps the provider give the best advice.

After the Telemedicine Visit: What to Do Next

Follow the care plan given by your healthcare provider. This may include:

If red flags develop after the visit, seek in-person care immediately.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Observe and note the number and appearance of stools.
• Measure and record your child's temperature.
• Prepare a list of symptoms and their duration.
• Have information on recent exposures, travel, or new foods.
• Gather a list of current medications and allergies.
• Ensure a quiet, well-lit space for the telemedicine visit.
• Have a device ready with camera and microphone for video calls.

After your tele-visit

• Follow hydration and feeding instructions provided by the healthcare provider.
• Monitor your child's symptoms closely for any changes or worsening.
• Keep a record of stool frequency and any new symptoms.
• Schedule a follow-up telemedicine or in-person visit if symptoms persist or worsen.
• Seek emergency care immediately if red flags develop after the visit.

FAQs

Can I treat my child's diarrhea at home without seeing a doctor?

Many cases of diarrhea in children are mild and can be managed at home with plenty of fluids and rest. However, if your child shows any red flags like dehydration, high fever, or blood in stool, you should seek medical care promptly.

What fluids are best to give a child with diarrhea?

Oral rehydration solutions (ORS) are best to prevent dehydration. If ORS is not available, clean water, breast milk, or formula can be given. Avoid sugary drinks or sodas as they can worsen diarrhea.

When should I go to the emergency room for my child's diarrhea?

Go to the emergency room if your child has signs of severe dehydration (such as very sleepy or unresponsive), persistent vomiting, blood in stool, severe abdominal pain, or a high fever that does not improve.

Is it safe to use telemedicine for diarrhea in my child?

Telemedicine is safe and useful for assessing mild diarrhea and guiding home care. It helps decide if your child needs to be seen in person. However, it cannot replace emergency care when serious symptoms are present.

How long does diarrhea usually last in children?

Most diarrhea cases in children improve within a few days, typically less than a week. If diarrhea lasts more than 7 days, you should seek medical evaluation.

Sources

1. Diarrhea in Children — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Managing Acute Diarrhea in Children — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Diarrhea - Symptoms and Causes — Mayo Clinic.
4. Diarrhea in Children: Treatment and Prevention — American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

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