Red flags & when to go in person for Rash (General)

Audience: pediatric

Rashes are common in children and can have many causes, ranging from mild irritation to serious infections. Telemedicine can often help assess rashes, provide advice, and guide treatment. However, some rashes need prompt in-person evaluation to ensure safety. This article helps parents and caregivers understand when a rash can be managed through telehealth and when to seek urgent medical care. Key warning signs include difficulty breathing, spreading rash with fever, or signs of infection. Preparing for a telemedicine visit with clear photos and symptom details can improve care. After the visit, follow recommended steps and watch for any worsening symptoms. Remember, telemedicine is a helpful tool but not a replacement for emergency or in-person care when needed.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Rapidly spreading rash accompanied by high fever (above 38°C or 100.4°F) requires immediate in-person evaluation.
• Difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or lips, or signs of an allergic reaction need urgent emergency care.
• Presence of purple or bruise-like spots that do not fade when pressed may indicate serious illness and need prompt medical attention.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of mild rashes without severe symptoms
• Follow-up visits to monitor rash progress
• Providing advice on skin care and over-the-counter treatments
• Evaluating rashes associated with mild symptoms such as mild itching or localized redness

What telemedicine cannot do

• Rashes with severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing or swelling of the face
• Rapidly spreading rashes with high fever
• Rashes with open sores, blisters, pus, or signs of infection
• Purple or bruise-like spots that do not fade with pressure
• Any signs of systemic illness or severe pain

Understanding Rashes in Children

Rashes can appear as red spots, bumps, blisters, or patches on the skin. They may itch, hurt, or cause no discomfort. Causes include allergies, infections, heat, or reactions to medications. Many rashes are harmless and clear up on their own or with simple treatment. However, some rashes signal more serious conditions that need medical attention.

When Telemedicine Can Help

Telemedicine allows healthcare providers to see your child's rash through video or photos. Providers can ask about symptoms, recent exposures, and medical history. This helps decide if the rash is likely mild or needs further care. Telehealth is useful for follow-up visits, medication advice, and monitoring progress.

Red Flags That Need In-Person Care

Certain signs mean your child should be seen in person promptly:

If any of these occur, seek emergency or urgent care immediately.

Preparing for a Telemedicine Visit

To get the most from a telehealth visit:

After the Telemedicine Visit

Follow the healthcare provider's advice carefully. This may include:

Keep track of your child's progress and ask for help if you have concerns.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Take clear, well-lit photos of the rash from multiple angles.
• Note the time when the rash first appeared and any changes.
• Record any other symptoms such as fever, cough, or swelling.
• Have your child's medical history and current medications available.
• Ensure a quiet space with a reliable internet connection for the telemedicine visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider's instructions for medications or skin care.
• Monitor your child for any new or worsening symptoms.
• Schedule a follow-up telemedicine or in-person visit if recommended.
• Seek immediate care if any red flags develop after the visit.
• Keep a record of your child's symptoms and treatment progress.

FAQs

Can all rashes be evaluated through telemedicine?

Not all rashes can be fully evaluated through telemedicine. Mild rashes without severe symptoms can often be assessed remotely, but rashes with serious signs like difficulty breathing, rapid spreading, or high fever usually require in-person evaluation.

What should I do if my child's rash gets worse after a telemedicine visit?

If the rash worsens, especially if accompanied by fever, pain, or other concerning symptoms, contact your healthcare provider promptly. If severe symptoms develop, seek emergency care immediately.

How can I best prepare my child for a telemedicine visit about a rash?

Prepare by taking clear photos of the rash, noting when it started and any changes, listing other symptoms, and having your child's medical history and medications ready. Choose a quiet place with good internet for the visit.

When is a rash considered an emergency?

A rash is an emergency if it is spreading rapidly with high fever, causes difficulty breathing or swelling of the face, has purple or bruise-like spots that do not fade when pressed, or is associated with severe pain or lethargy. In these cases, seek immediate medical care.

Sources

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

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