A parent calls the nursing triage line during the evening. The parent says that a 7-year-old was found playing in an area with poison ivy and asks what to do. Which is the most important instruction to give the parent?

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11ecbb05_c9fc_79d9_b433_0999f590f6ac_MD0009_00 Poison ivy can cause a contact dermatitis rash in those who are sensitive to the oily resin found on the leaves, stems, and roots of the plant. About 50% of people who come in contact with the plant develop a rash. It is often linear in appearance where the plant brushed against the skin. The rash develops 12-48 hours after exposure and can last for several weeks. The severity of the rash depends on the amount of resin on the skin. It is most important to first thoroughly wash the area to remove the resin and prevent its spread to other areas of the body. (Options A, B, and C) Applying cool, wet compresses; applying topical cortisone; and discouraging the child from scratching the area are all appropriate after the rash has developed. Washing the area has the highest priority and is most important immediately after exposure. Educational objective: Immediately after exposure to poison ivy, the client should be instructed to thoroughly wash the area to remove the oily resin, which is responsible for causing the rash that follows in 12-48 hours.

A Parent Calls the Nursing Triage Line During the Evening