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Step 1
The first thing you should do if you think you may have been exposed to poison ivy is to wash the effected area immediately with soap and water. Clean hands thoroughly and be sure to clean items that you think might have been exposed to the resin from the poison ivy plant. (garden tools, clothing, gloves, etc)
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Step 2
Usually a rash or blistering will occur within a day or two. Typically the area will develop a rash, followed by weeping (oozing) of the affected area. Blistering is also common. You will must likely also experience itching. The blistering shown in the photograph was identified as contact dermatitis from a medical doctor. The suggestion was made that it was most likely poison ivy as I had just recently had an outbreak and was most likely re-exposed to poison ivy.
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Step 3
Outbreaks usually take a matter of 1-2 weeks to heal; depending on the severity. In some cases, immediate medical attention is needed for severe allergic reactions.
