How to prepare for a telemedicine visit about Nausea

Audience: pediatric

Nausea in children can be caused by many different things, from mild stomach upset to more serious conditions. A telemedicine visit can be a helpful way to discuss your child's symptoms with a healthcare provider without needing to travel. During the visit, the provider will ask about your child's symptoms, medical history, and any other concerns. Preparing for the visit by gathering information and understanding when to seek urgent care can make the appointment more effective. Telemedicine is often suitable for mild to moderate nausea, but if your child shows signs of dehydration, severe pain, or other serious symptoms, in-person care is important. This guide helps you get ready for a telemedicine visit about your child's nausea and know what to expect afterward.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Child shows signs of dehydration such as dry mouth, no tears when crying, or very little urine output — seek urgent care.
• Child has severe or worsening abdominal pain or persistent vomiting lasting more than 24 hours — get in-person evaluation.
• Child has blood in vomit or stool, high fever, lethargy, difficulty breathing, or severe headache — seek emergency care immediately.

What telemedicine can do

• Mild to moderate nausea without alarming symptoms
• Providing advice on hydration and diet
• Reviewing symptom history and medication use
• Guidance on when to seek in-person care

What telemedicine cannot do

• Severe dehydration signs
• Persistent vomiting or severe abdominal pain
• Blood in vomit or stool
• High fever with lethargy or difficulty breathing
• Emergency medical conditions requiring physical examination or tests

What to Expect During the Telemedicine Visit

During the telemedicine appointment, the healthcare provider will ask about your child's nausea, including when it started, how often it happens, and any other symptoms like vomiting, fever, or pain. They may also ask about recent food intake, travel, or possible exposures to illness. You might be asked to show your child on camera to observe their appearance and behavior. The provider will use this information to suggest possible causes and recommend next steps.

When Telemedicine Is Appropriate for Nausea

Telemedicine can often help for mild or moderate nausea without alarming symptoms. It allows you to get advice quickly and safely from home. The provider may suggest home care tips, dietary changes, or medications that can be given safely. If needed, they can guide you on when to seek in-person care or emergency services.

When to Seek In-Person Care

If your child has any of the following, they should be evaluated in person or in an emergency setting:

These signs may indicate a more serious condition that needs urgent attention.

How to Prepare for the Telemedicine Visit

Before the appointment, gather important information:

Having this ready will help the provider understand your child's situation better.

After the Telemedicine Visit

Follow any care instructions given by the provider, such as giving fluids, adjusting diet, or giving medications. Monitor your child's symptoms closely. If symptoms worsen or new concerning signs appear, seek in-person care promptly. Keep a record of any changes and follow up with your provider if needed.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Note the time nausea started and its frequency
• List all other symptoms your child is experiencing
• Gather a list of current medications and known allergies
• Prepare information about recent food intake, travel, or illness exposures
• Ensure your device has a working camera and stable internet connection
• Find a quiet, well-lit place for the telemedicine visit

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider’s instructions on care and medications
• Encourage your child to stay hydrated with small, frequent sips of fluids
• Monitor symptoms closely for any worsening or new signs
• Seek in-person care if red-flag symptoms develop
• Schedule a follow-up if symptoms persist or do not improve

FAQs

Can telemedicine diagnose the cause of my child's nausea?

Telemedicine providers can often identify likely causes based on symptoms and history, but some conditions may require physical exams or tests that need an in-person visit.

What should I do if my child vomits during the telemedicine visit?

Pause the visit if needed to help your child. Inform the provider about the vomiting and any other symptoms. They will guide you on next steps.

Is it safe to give my child medications for nausea without seeing a doctor in person?

Only give medications recommended by a healthcare provider. During telemedicine, the provider can advise on safe options based on your child's age and health history.

How do I know if my child's nausea is serious?

Watch for red flags like dehydration, severe pain, persistent vomiting, blood in vomit or stool, high fever, or difficulty breathing. These require prompt in-person care.

Can telemedicine visits replace all in-person visits for nausea?

Telemedicine is helpful for many mild cases but cannot replace in-person exams or tests needed for serious or unclear conditions.

Sources

1. Nausea and Vomiting in Children — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Vomiting and Nausea in Children — American Academy of Pediatrics.
3. Telehealth: What You Need to Know — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Nausea and Vomiting in Children: Clinical Overview — Mayo Clinic.

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