How to Treat Cellulitis in Children
Cellulitis is a bacterial infection of the skin and underlying tissues. It usually begins as a small area of redness, which then spreads and becomes more inflamed, hard and painful. Trauma to the skin and insect bites can predispose the area to bacterial infection and cellulitis, especially in children. Appropriate treatment is important to prevent spread of bacteria to other tissues, such as bone and joints, and to prevent formation of an abscess, which could need surgical drainage.
Things You'll Need
- Antibiotic ointment
- Warm compress
- Bandage
- Oral antibiotic
- Intravenous antibiotic
Instructions
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Examine the area of redness for signs of trauma, insect bites or foreign objects. If there is a laceration or a foreign object (for example, a splinter) that you cannot remove easily, seek medical attention. If not, put a small layer of antibiotic ointment on top of it.
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Moisten a small towel with warm water or a warm compress and cover the area for five minutes at a time. Use a marker to draw a line around the area of redness to track its spread.
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Elevate the area of cellulitis, if possible, to help with drainage. Use good hand hygiene when treating the area and after care is finished to prevent the spread of infection.
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Use a measuring dropper or teaspoon to calculate the amount of liquid antibiotic to be given, if prescribed by a primary care provider. Give all the prescribed amount at one time. You can give small amounts or sips of medicine over a few minutes if it is easier for the child. Older children can take chewable antibiotic tablets.
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Tips & Warnings
Another way to make a warm compress is to wet a small towel and put in the microwave on high for 5 seconds. Make sure when you take it out that it is not too hot for the child.
Use a dry erase marker to draw a line around the area of swelling. Do not use crayons, pencils or ink pens, as these can be easily erased.
Some bacteria that cause cellulitis have become resistant to the most common antibiotics. Close follow-up is important to assess if the antibiotics are working.
