Version July 2025
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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 impetigo. This is a skin infection that can happen if bacteria (germs) get into cuts, scrapes, or other small openings in the skin. It is most common when the weather is warm and humid. It spreads easily between people who live together or spend a lot of time together.
Impetigo usually causes sores on the skin, most often on the face, arms, or legs. The sores often have scabs that form a yellow, gold, or brown crust. You might also have blisters. If the blisters break open, they can leave painful sores and scabs.
The doctors might have given you antibiotics, either as a cream you put on your skin or pills you take by mouth. It is very important to use the medicine exactly as instructed, even if you start to feel better.
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.
●Wash your hands often with soap and water. Try not to touch the infected area, except when you wash it.
●Wash the area gently a few times each day with mild soap and cool or warm water. This helps remove crusts.
●Do not share personal items like towels or clothing with others.
●You can go back to school or work 24 hours after starting treatment. If you or your child have sores or blisters that are draining, cover them with a bandage while they heal.
●Once the infection has healed, the affected skin might look lighter or darker than your other skin. This is normal.
When should I get emergency help?
●Return to the ED if:
•The infection spreads over large parts of 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.
●The sores have more swelling, redness, warmth, pain, or drainage.
●The affected area is not getting better after 5 days.
●You have new or worsening symptoms.
