Poison ivy is a common type of rash caused by the vine or leaves of the poison ivy plant.

Signs and symptoms:

• Areas of the skin will appear red, with lines or clusters of clear, wet blisters (bumps).
• Blisters will itch.
• Rash can develop anywhere on the body.

What can you do?

• Soak the areas with cool water.
• Put 2 cups of baking soda in your child's bath water.
• Use hydrocortisone cream (1%) on the affected areas. You can buy this at your drugstore.
• Keep your child's fingernails cut short to avoid scratching.
• Give your child diphenhydramine (Benadryl) for itching. Be sure to check the package for the correct dosage for your child's age.

Call your child's doctor if:

• Your child feels worse.
• The rash looks infected (red, hot, draining)
• Your child's eyes are swelling shut

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