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 boil. This is an infection under the skin that causes a painful, pus-filled lump. It happens when bacteria infect a hair follicle. Boils can start small and grow big quickly. They usually get more painful as they get bigger.
To heal, a boil needs to open so the pus inside can drain out. The doctor might have drained your boil. Or they might have sent you home to wait for the boil to open and drain. They might have given you antibiotics. If so, it is very important that you finish all the medicine, even if you start to feel better.
After the boil drains, the pain should get much better and the area should heal on its own. But it can take a few weeks for the boil to open, drain, and heal completely. Follow the instructions for taking care of the wound after it drains.
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.
●Take all your medicines as instructed.
●Do not squeeze or pop the boil. This can spread the infection.
●To help the boil open and drain, put warm pressure on it. To do this:
•Wet a clean washcloth with warm water, and put it on the boil.
•When the washcloth cools, reheat it with warm water and put it back on the boil.
•Repeat these steps for 10 to 15 minutes every few hours.
●After the boil opens, wash the area with soap and water 1 to 2 times every day until it is healed. Cover the area with a clean bandage.
●Wash your hands before and after you touch the boil or dressing.
When should I get emergency help?
●Return to the ED if:
•The boil gets much larger.
•Red lines are moving from the area of the boil up your arm or leg toward your body.
When should I call the doctor? —
Call for advice if:
●You have a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or chills.
●You are in very bad pain from the boil.
●The boil gets better, but then comes back.
●You have new or worsening symptoms.
