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 rash, also called "dermatitis." Many things can irritate the skin and cause a rash, like plants, soaps, and some metals. A rash can also be a side effect of a medicine. The doctors might not know what is causing your rash.
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 do the following:
●Call your regular doctor and tell them you were in the ED. Make a follow-up appointment if you were told to.
●Use an unscented cream or lotion to keep your skin moist.
●Drink plenty of fluids to keep your body hydrated.
●Bathe with cool or warm water. Do not use hot water. Pat yourself dry with a clean, thick, soft towel. Use mild and unscented soap, moisturizers, and deodorants.
●To help with itching:
•Keep your nails short and clean.
•Wear cotton gloves to bed if you scratch in your sleep.
•Use a cool compress on your skin, if it feels good. Dip a clean washcloth in cold water, and hold it to your skin.
●If you know what caused your rash, try to avoid it in the future. If a medicine caused your rash, talk to your doctor. You might be able to switch medicines.
When should I get emergency help?
●Call for emergency help right away (in the US and Canada, call 9-1-1) if:
•You have severe trouble breathing or swallowing, or cannot speak in full sentences.
●Return to the ED if:
•The rash gets worse or spreads over large parts of your body.
•You have trouble breathing, but can still talk in full sentences.
When should I call the doctor? —
Call for advice if you have:
●A fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or chills
●Signs of an infection, like swelling, warmth, pain, or drainage from the rash
●New or worsening symptoms
Patient education: Contact dermatitis (The Basics)
Patient education: Eczema (atopic dermatitis) (The Basics)
Patient education: Heat rash (prickly heat) (The Basics)
Patient education: Poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac (The Basics)
Patient education: Contact dermatitis (including latex dermatitis) (Beyond the Basics)
Patient education: Eczema (atopic dermatitis) (Beyond the Basics)
Patient education: Poison ivy (Beyond the Basics)
