POISONOUS PLANTS

Symptoms and First Aid

Symptoms

Signs or symptoms associated with dermal contact with poisonous plants may include:

• Red rash within a few days of contact
• Possible bumps, patches, streaking, or weeping blisters (blister fluids are not contagious)
• Swelling
• Itching

First Aid

Workers who have come in contact with poisonous plants should:

• Immediately rinse skin with rubbing alcohol, specialized poison plant washes, degreasing soap (such as dishwashing soap) or detergent, and lots of water.
  • Rinse frequently so that wash solutions do not dry on the skin and further spread the urushiol.
• Scrub under nails with a brush.
• Apply wet compresses, calamine lotion, or hydrocortisone cream to the skin to reduce itching and blistering.
  • Follow the directions on any creams and lotions. Do not apply to broken skin, such as open blisters.
  • Oatmeal baths may relieve itching.
• An antihistamine such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl) can be taken to help relieve itching.
  • Follow directions on the package.
  • Drowsiness may occur.
  • If children come in contact with work clothing contaminated with urushiol, a pediatrician should be contacted to determine appropriate dosage.
• In severe cases or if the rash is on the face or genitals, seek professional medical attention.
• Call 911 or go to a hospital emergency room if the worker is suffering a severe allergic reaction, such as swelling or difficulty breathing, or has had a severe reaction in the past.