The oil in poison ivy/oak/sumac plants (called urushiol) can cause an allergic rash in most people who come into contact with it. Mild rashes can be treated at home, and mostly cause discomfort from itching, burning, or blistering. Severe, widespread rashes require medical treatment. Signs and Symptoms an itchy red rash that appears within 4 hours to 4 days after touching the plant oil blisters that ooze clear fluid bumps and blisters that may be different sizes and look like streaks on the skin rash may begin to look crusty as it heals What to Do Remove any clothing that has touched the plant or rash and wash all recently worn clothing. Gently wash skin and scrub under fingernails right away with soap and water. Cut fingernails short to keep your child from breaking the skin when scratching. Place cool compresses on the skin as needed. For itching: add oatmeal to the bath; use calamine lotion on the skin (but not on the face or on the genitals); and, if needed, give your child the recommended dose of diphenhydramine (Benadryl or a store brand). Get Medical Care if: the rash covers a large portion of the body or is on the face or genitals the rash is getting worse despite home treatment the skin looks infected (increasing redness, warmth, pain, swelling, or pus) Get Emergency Medical Care if Your Child: has a known severe allergy to poison ivy/oak/sumac develops swelling of the tongue or throat complains of chest tightness or trouble breathing develops large areas of redness or swelling was given a shot of epinephrine (EpiPen) Think Prevention! Teach kids what poison ivy/oak/sumac plants look like and how important they are to avoid. Make sure kids always wear long-sleeved shirts and pants whenever playing close to these plants. Have kids wash their hands well after being outdoors. Back to Articles Related Articles Summer Safety Center Want to avoid summer hazards so you can focus on the fun? This center offers tips for teens. Read More Summer Safety Keep the fun in summer by keeping your child safe in the sun, the water, and the great outdoors. Read More Stay Safe Center Go outside! Just be safe out there. Find out how to handle stinging bugs, thunderstorms, sunny days, and icy cold days, too. Read More Poison Ivy Poison ivy can grow anywhere, from the woods to your backyard. This article for teens has tips on how to avoid the plant and what to do if you get a rash. Read More Poison Ivy Poison ivy can give you a nasty rash. Find out more about it - and the other plants that can make you itch - in this article for kids. Read More Poison Ivy Most people get a reaction to poison ivy. Check out this article for tips on what to do and how to avoid poison ivy. Read More Rashes Learn about rashes in a flash. Check out our article just for kids! Read More Hand Washing: Why It's So Important Washing your hands well and often is the best way to keep from getting sick. Here's how to teach this all-important habit to your kids. Read More Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor. © 1995-2021 KidsHealth®. All rights reserved. Images provided by The Nemours Foundation, iStock, Getty Images, Veer, Shutterstock, and Clipart.com.