Preventing infection after contact with poison ivy, oak, or sumac


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Preventing infection after contact with poison ivy, oak, or sumac


To prevent infection of a poison ivy, oak, or sumac rash:

  • Try not to scratch the rash. Put mittens or cotton socks on infants' hands to help prevent them from scratching skin and opening blisters.
  • Cut fingernails short to minimize the possibility of opening the skin and spreading bacteria.
  • Use a mild soap to clean the skin.

Credits


Author Colleen Cronin
Editor Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor Tracy Landauer
Primary Medical Reviewer Patrice Burgess, MD

- Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer H. Michael O'Connor, MD

- Emergency Medicine
Last Updated January 12, 2006

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Last updated: January 12, 2006
Author: Colleen Cronin
Reviewed By: Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine, H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine
Editors: Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer

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