How to prepare for a telemedicine visit about Rash (General)

Audience: pediatric

Rashes are common in children and can have many causes, from mild irritation to infections or allergic reactions. Preparing for a telemedicine visit about a rash helps ensure the healthcare provider can assess your child's condition accurately and advise the best care. During the visit, you will describe the rash, its location, and any other symptoms your child has. Telemedicine can often help identify mild rashes and guide treatment or home care. However, some rashes may need in-person evaluation, especially if they come with serious symptoms. Knowing when to seek urgent care is important for your child's safety. This guide explains how to prepare for your telemedicine visit, what signs to watch for, and what to expect after the consultation.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Rash accompanied by difficulty breathing or swelling of the face or lips — seek emergency care immediately.
• Rapidly spreading rash or rash with blisters and open sores — seek urgent medical evaluation.
• High fever (above 38°C or 100.4°F) with rash, especially if the child is very sleepy or unresponsive — seek urgent care.

What telemedicine can do

• Assessment of mild to moderate rashes without severe symptoms.
• Guidance on home care and symptom management for common rashes.
• Advice on when to seek in-person evaluation.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Emergency situations such as difficulty breathing or swelling of the face.
• Severe rashes with blistering, open sores, or rapidly spreading infection.
• Cases requiring physical examination, laboratory tests, or immediate treatment.

What to Expect During Your Telemedicine Visit

During the visit, you will be asked about your child's rash, including when it started, how it looks, and if it has changed. You may need to show the rash using your device's camera. The healthcare provider will also ask about other symptoms like fever, itching, or pain. They will guide you on care steps or whether your child needs further tests or in-person care.

How to Prepare for the Telemedicine Visit

Prepare by finding a well-lit area to show the rash clearly. Have your child's medical history ready, including any allergies or recent illnesses. Write down questions or concerns you have. Keep a list of any medications your child is taking. Make sure your device is charged and connected to a stable internet connection.

When to Seek In-Person Care

Some rash symptoms require urgent in-person care. These include difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or lips, a rapidly spreading rash, high fever, or if your child is very sleepy or not responding. If the rash has blisters, open sores, or is accompanied by severe pain, seek immediate medical attention.

Common Causes of Rashes in Children

Rashes can be caused by infections, allergic reactions, heat, or irritants like soaps or plants. Many rashes are mild and improve with simple care. Your healthcare provider can help identify the likely cause and suggest treatments that are safe for your child.

After the Telemedicine Visit: What to Do Next

Follow the care instructions provided by your healthcare provider. Monitor your child's rash and symptoms closely. If the rash worsens or new symptoms develop, contact your healthcare provider again or seek in-person care. Keep track of any medications given and their effects.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Find a well-lit, quiet area for the visit.
• Have your child's medical history and allergy information ready.
• Write down questions or concerns about the rash.
• Ensure your device is charged and connected to the internet.
• Prepare to show the rash clearly on camera, possibly with a close-up view.
• Have a list of any medications your child is currently taking.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider's instructions carefully.
• Monitor the rash and your child's overall condition.
• Note any changes or new symptoms and report them if needed.
• Keep track of any medications or treatments given.
• Schedule follow-up care if recommended or if symptoms worsen.

FAQs

Can telemedicine diagnose all types of rashes in children?

Telemedicine can help assess many common rashes, especially mild ones, by visual inspection and history. However, some rashes require in-person examination or tests for accurate diagnosis.

What should I do if my child's rash worsens after the telemedicine visit?

If the rash worsens or new symptoms appear, contact your healthcare provider promptly or seek in-person medical care, especially if red flags like difficulty breathing or high fever develop.

How can I make the rash easier to see during the telemedicine visit?

Use natural light or a bright lamp to illuminate the rash. Position your camera close enough to show details clearly without blurring. Avoid shadows or glare on the skin.

Are there any rashes that require emergency care?

Yes. Rashes with difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or lips, rapidly spreading rash, blisters, open sores, or high fever with lethargy require urgent medical attention.

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

Some mild rashes may improve with home care like gentle skin cleaning and avoiding irritants. However, it's best to consult a healthcare provider to ensure safe and appropriate treatment.

Sources

1. Skin Rash in Children — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Rashes in Children — American Academy of Pediatrics.
3. Rashes and Skin Conditions — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Rash: Symptoms and Causes — Mayo Clinic.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational and triage 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.