How to Treat Poison Ivy in a Toddler
Every parent of a toddler knows that despite their best attempts to keep the child safe, toddlers have a way of getting into everything--including poison ivy. The rash that usually results from contact with poison ivy is extremely itchy and uncomfortable, especially for toddlers who want to scratch the itch. While nothing can "cure" the poison ivy rash, treating poison ivy in a toddler can help relieve the itchiness and allow the rash to heal faster.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
If contact with poison ivy is suspected, immediately bathe the toddler in cool water with mild soap and wash all clothes that came in contact with the poison ivy. Bathing the toddler can help prevent the poison ivy resin from adhering to the skin and causing the poison ivy rash reaction.
-
2
If a reaction occurs (usually within 12 to 48 hours from exposure), apply cool compresses and allow the toddler to soak in cool baths. This can help relieve the itchiness of the poison ivy rash.
-
-
3
After bathing the toddler in a cool bath, gently apply calamine lotion to the poison ivy rash.
-
4
Trim the toddler's nails with nail clippers so that he cannot scratch the poison rash and cause a secondary infection.
-
5
Apply the calamine lotion three to four times daily to help relieve itching and dry out the blisters of the poison ivy rash.
-
6
If the rash becomes severe, spreads to the toddler's face, or lasts more than 10 days, contact her pediatrician. The pediatrician might prescribe an oral antihistamine or steroids to help reduce the itchiness of the poison ivy rash.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Colloidal oatmeal baths can also help relieve the itchiness of poison ivy.
Dress the toddler in loose-fitting pants and a long sleeved shirt to discourage scratching.
Teach the toddler what poison ivy looks like by showing him pictures of the plant.
Make sure the calamine lotion has not reached its expiration date. Calamine is no longer effective past the expiration date printed on the bottle.
Do not bath a toddler with poison ivy in warm water, as this can irritate the poison ivy rash.
Do not use a topical antihistamine or ointment with benzocaine or zirconium, as these can cause additional allergic reactions.
The poison ivy rash cannot be spread by scratching, but secondary infections can result that will make the rash heal more slowly.
Resources
- Photo Credit Wikipedia, Public Domain
