How to Treat Poison Ivy in a Toddler

Every parent of a toddler knows that despite their best attempts to keep the child safe, toddlers have a way of getting into everything--including poison ivy. The rash that usually results from contact with poison ivy is extremely itchy and uncomfortable, especially for toddlers who want to scratch the itch. While nothing can "cure" the poison ivy rash, treating poison ivy in a toddler can help relieve the itchiness and allow the rash to heal faster.

Things You'll Need

• Mild soap
• Cool water
• Washcloths
• Calamine lotion
• Nail clippers

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Instructions

• 1

  If contact with poison ivy is suspected, immediately bathe the toddler in cool water with mild soap and wash all clothes that came in contact with the poison ivy. Bathing the toddler can help prevent the poison ivy resin from adhering to the skin and causing the poison ivy rash reaction.

• 2

  If a reaction occurs (usually within 12 to 48 hours from exposure), apply cool compresses and allow the toddler to soak in cool baths. This can help relieve the itchiness of the poison ivy rash.

• 3

  After bathing the toddler in a cool bath, gently apply calamine lotion to the poison ivy rash.

• 4

  Trim the toddler's nails with nail clippers so that he cannot scratch the poison rash and cause a secondary infection.

• 5

  Apply the calamine lotion three to four times daily to help relieve itching and dry out the blisters of the poison ivy rash.

• 6

  If the rash becomes severe, spreads to the toddler's face, or lasts more than 10 days, contact her pediatrician. The pediatrician might prescribe an oral antihistamine or steroids to help reduce the itchiness of the poison ivy rash.