Version July 2025
Please read the Disclaimer at the end of this page.
What are discharge instructions? —
Discharge instructions are information about how to take care of yourself after getting medical care in the emergency department ("ED").
What should I know? —
You came to the ED for a skin infection, also called "cellulitis." All people have germs on their skin. Most of the time, these germs do not cause a problem. A skin infection happens when the germs get into the layers of the skin.
You need antibiotics to treat the infection. It is important to take all the antibiotics even if you start to feel better. If you stop taking them, your infection might come back and be more serious than before.
How do I care for myself at home? —
Ask the doctor or nurse what you should do when you go home. Make sure you understand exactly what you need to do to care for yourself. Ask questions if there is anything you do not understand.
You should also:
●Call your regular doctor and tell them you were in the ED. Make a follow-up appointment if you were told to.
●Prop your painful body part on pillows, keeping it above the level of your heart. This can help lessen pain and swelling.
●Keep your infected area clean and dry. Do not squeeze, scratch, or rub it. You can gently wash the area with soap and water, or take a shower. Pat the area dry with a clean towel.
●Wash your hands before and after you touch your infected area. However, you cannot give cellulitis to someone else.
●Do not put an antibiotic ointment on the infected area.
When should I call the doctor? —
Call for advice if:
●You have a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or chills.
●The area becomes more red, swollen, or painful.
●The redness or swelling spreads up your leg or arm or to a larger area.
●The infected area is not better after 3 days of taking antibiotics.
●You have new or worsening symptoms.
Patient education: Cellulitis and erysipelas (skin infections) (The Basics)
Patient education: Cellulitis around the eye (The Basics)
Patient education: Skin and soft tissue infection (cellulitis) (Beyond the Basics)
