How to prepare for a telemedicine visit about Diarrhea in Children

Audience: pediatric

Diarrhea in children is common and can often be managed safely with the help of telemedicine. Preparing for your child's telemedicine visit can help the healthcare provider understand the symptoms and provide the best advice. During the visit, you may be asked about the frequency and appearance of stools, any signs of dehydration, and other symptoms like fever or vomiting. Telemedicine can guide you on home care, hydration, and when to seek further medical attention. However, some symptoms require in-person evaluation to ensure your child's safety. Knowing what to expect and how to prepare can make the telemedicine visit more effective and reassuring for you and your child.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Child shows signs of dehydration such as dry mouth, no tears when crying, or decreased urination—seek immediate medical care.
• Presence of blood or black stools in the diarrhea—contact healthcare provider promptly.
• High fever (above 39°C or 102.2°F) lasting more than 24 hours or severe abdominal pain—arrange for urgent in-person evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Mild to moderate diarrhea without severe symptoms
• Guidance on hydration and home care
• Follow-up questions after initial treatment
• Advice on symptom monitoring and diet

What telemedicine cannot do

• Severe dehydration signs
• Blood in stools or black stools
• Persistent high fever or severe abdominal pain
• Diarrhea lasting more than a few days requiring tests or urgent treatment

What to Expect During the Telemedicine Visit

The healthcare provider will ask detailed questions about your child's diarrhea, including how often it occurs, the color and consistency, and any other symptoms like fever or vomiting. They may also ask about your child's recent diet, possible exposures, and any medications taken. You might be asked to show your child's general appearance and hydration status via video.

When Telemedicine is Appropriate for Diarrhea

Telemedicine is often suitable for mild to moderate diarrhea without severe symptoms. It can help you learn how to keep your child hydrated and when to monitor symptoms closely. It is also useful for follow-up advice after initial treatment or if you have questions about managing your child's condition at home.

When to Seek In-Person Care

If your child shows signs of dehydration, blood in stools, persistent high fever, severe abdominal pain, or if diarrhea lasts more than a few days, an in-person visit is often necessary. These signs may require physical examination, laboratory tests, or urgent treatment that cannot be done remotely.

How to Prepare for the Telemedicine Visit

Gather information about your child's symptoms, including the number of diarrhea episodes and any other symptoms. Have a list of current medications and allergies ready. Ensure your device has a good internet connection and the camera is working. Prepare a quiet, well-lit space for the visit. Have a glass of water and any relevant health records nearby.

After the Telemedicine Visit: What to Do Next

Follow the healthcare provider's advice about hydration, diet, and symptom monitoring. Watch for any worsening symptoms or new signs that may require urgent care. Schedule follow-up visits if recommended. Keep a record of your child's symptoms and any treatments given.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Note the number and appearance of diarrhea episodes
• Record any additional symptoms like fever, vomiting, or abdominal pain
• List current medications and allergies
• Test your device’s internet connection and camera
• Find a quiet and well-lit area for the visit
• Have a glass of water and any recent health records nearby

After your tele-visit

• Follow hydration and dietary advice given during the visit
• Monitor your child's symptoms closely
• Seek urgent care if red flags develop
• Schedule follow-up appointments if recommended
• Keep a symptom diary to share with healthcare providers

FAQs

Can I treat my child's diarrhea at home?

Often, mild diarrhea in children can be managed at home with plenty of fluids and a balanced diet. Avoid sugary drinks and focus on oral rehydration solutions if available. However, always consult a healthcare provider if you are unsure or if symptoms worsen.

When should I call the doctor during a telemedicine visit?

Call or alert your healthcare provider if your child has signs of dehydration, blood in stools, persistent high fever, or severe abdominal pain. These symptoms often require urgent in-person evaluation.

What information should I have ready for the telemedicine visit?

Be prepared with details about your child's symptoms, including how often and what the diarrhea looks like, any other symptoms, recent diet, medications, and allergies. This helps the provider give accurate advice.

Is telemedicine safe for managing diarrhea in children?

Telemedicine can be a safe and effective way to manage mild to moderate diarrhea by providing timely advice and guidance. However, it is not a substitute for emergency care when severe symptoms are present.

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: Clinical Practice Guidelines — American Academy of Pediatrics.

This telemedicine guidance is educational and not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your child’s symptoms worsen or you have concerns, seek prompt medical attention.