First Aid For Contact Poisoning (Skin Rashes)

a. General.

(1) Poison Ivy grows as a small plant (vine or shrub) and has three glossy leaflets (Figure C-1).

(2) Poison Oak grows in shrub or vine form, and has clusters of three leaflets with wavy edges (Figure C-2).

(3) Poison Sumac grows as a shrub or small tree. Leaflets grow opposite each other with one at tip (Figure C-3).

b. Signs/Symptoms.

• Redness.

• Swelling.

• Itching.

• Rashes or blisters.

• Burning sensation.

• General headaches and fever.

c. First Aid.

(1) Expose the affected area: remove clothing and jewelry.

(2) Cleanse affected area with soap and water.

(3) Apply rubbing alcohol, if available, to the affected areas.

(4) Apply calamine lotion (helps relieve itching and burning).

(5) Avoid dressing the affected area.

(6) Seek medical help, evacuate if necessary. (If rash is severe, or on face or genitals, seek medical help.)