How to prepare for a telemedicine visit about Groin Pain in Children

Audience: pediatric

Groin pain in children can have many causes, ranging from minor strains to more serious conditions. Preparing for a telemedicine visit helps ensure the healthcare provider can understand your child's symptoms clearly and provide the best advice. During the visit, you will discuss the pain's location, severity, and any other symptoms like fever or swelling. Telemedicine can be a convenient way to get guidance quickly, but some situations require in-person care. Knowing when to seek urgent help is important for your child's safety. This guide will help you prepare for a telemedicine appointment about your child's groin pain, what to expect, and when to get immediate medical attention.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Sudden, severe groin pain especially if your child is unable to walk — seek emergency care immediately.
• Swelling, redness, or warmth in the groin area accompanied by fever — contact a healthcare provider promptly.
• Persistent vomiting, abdominal pain, or signs of shock (paleness, weakness, rapid heartbeat) — go to the emergency room without delay.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of mild to moderate groin pain without severe symptoms.
• Guidance on symptom management and home care.
• Advice on when to seek further in-person evaluation.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Emergency conditions such as suspected testicular torsion.
• Severe pain with swelling and fever requiring physical examination and possible imaging.
• Injuries needing urgent surgical or specialized care.

What to Expect During the Telemedicine Visit

During the telemedicine visit, the healthcare provider will ask about your child's symptoms, such as when the pain started, its intensity, and any activities that make it better or worse. They may ask about other symptoms like fever, swelling, or difficulty walking. You might be asked to show the affected area on camera if possible. Be ready to discuss your child's medical history and any recent injuries or illnesses.

How to Prepare for the Telemedicine Visit

Before the visit, find a quiet, well-lit space where you can talk and show the affected area if needed. Have a list of your child's symptoms, including when they started and any changes. Gather any relevant medical records or medications your child is taking. Make sure your device is charged and has a stable internet connection. Write down any questions you want to ask the healthcare provider.

When Telemedicine is Appropriate for Groin Pain

Telemedicine is often suitable for initial assessment of mild to moderate groin pain without severe symptoms. It can help determine if home care is appropriate or if further testing or in-person evaluation is needed. Telemedicine can guide you on managing symptoms and when to seek urgent care.

When to Seek In-Person Medical Care Immediately

If your child has sudden, severe groin pain, swelling, redness, fever, difficulty walking, or signs of injury, urgent in-person evaluation is needed. These symptoms may indicate serious conditions such as testicular torsion or infection that require prompt treatment.

Tips for Effective Communication During the Visit

Speak clearly and describe your child's symptoms in detail. Use simple terms and be honest about any concerns. If the provider asks you to show the painful area, try to do so carefully and respectfully. Take notes during the visit to remember advice and next steps.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Find a quiet, well-lit space for the visit.
• Ensure your device is charged and connected to stable internet.
• Prepare a list of your child's symptoms with details on onset and severity.
• Have your child's medical history and current medications ready.
• Write down any questions or concerns you want to discuss.
• Be ready to show the affected area on camera if asked.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider's advice on symptom management.
• Monitor your child's symptoms closely for any worsening or new signs.
• Schedule an in-person visit if recommended or if symptoms worsen.
• Keep a record of any medications or treatments given.
• Contact your healthcare provider if you notice any red flag symptoms.

FAQs

Can telemedicine diagnose the cause of my child's groin pain?

Telemedicine can help assess symptoms and guide next steps, but it often cannot provide a definitive diagnosis without a physical exam or tests. In some cases, an in-person visit may be needed.

What should I do if my child's groin pain gets worse after the telemedicine visit?

If your child's pain worsens, or if they develop red flag symptoms like swelling, fever, or difficulty walking, seek in-person medical care immediately.

How can I help my child during the telemedicine visit?

Be prepared to describe symptoms clearly, assist with showing the affected area if needed, and provide any relevant medical information to the healthcare provider.

Is it safe to rely on telemedicine for groin pain in children?

Telemedicine is a useful tool for initial evaluation and guidance, but it is not a substitute for emergency or in-person care when needed. Always seek urgent care if serious symptoms occur.

Sources

1. Groin Pain in Children — MedlinePlus | U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Telehealth: What You Need to Know — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Groin Pain in Children: Evaluation and Management — American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).
4. When to Seek Emergency Care for Children — FamilyDoctor.org | American Academy of Family Physicians.

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