Version July 2025
Please read the Disclaimer at the end of this page.
What are discharge instructions? —
Discharge instructions are information about how to take care of your child after getting medical care in the emergency department ("ED").
What should I know? —
Your child was seen in the ED for a skin infection, also called "cellulitis." All people have germs on their skin. Most of the time, these germs do not cause a problem. A skin infection happens when the germs get into the layers of the skin.
The doctors probably gave you antibiotics to give to your child. It is very important they finish all the medicine, even if they start to feel better.
How do I care for my child at home? —
Ask the doctor or nurse what you should do when you go home. Make sure you understand exactly what you need to do to care for your child. Ask questions if there is anything you do not understand.
You should also:
●Call your child's regular doctor and tell them your child was in the ED. Make a follow-up appointment if you were told to.
●Help your child prop their painful body part on pillows, keeping it above the level of their heart. This helps lessen pain and swelling.
●Help your child keep the infected area clean and dry. Do not squeeze, scratch, or rub it. You can gently wash the area with soap and water, or take a shower. Pat the area dry with a clean towel.
●Always wash your and your child's hands before and after you or they touch the infected area. But you cannot give cellulitis to someone else.
●Do not put an antibiotic ointment on the infected area.
When should I get emergency help?
●Return to the ED if your child:
•Has a fever of 100.4 °F (38.0°C) or higher, a rash all over their body, and red eyes, diarrhea, or mouth sores
•Is hard to wake up, or is not acting like themselves
When should I call the doctor? —
Call for advice if:
●Your child has a fever of 100.4°F (38.0°C) or higher, or chills.
●The area becomes more red, swollen, or painful.
●The redness or swelling spreads up your child's leg or arm or to a larger area.
●The infected area is not better after 3 days of taking antibiotics.
●Your child has new or worsening symptoms.
Patient education: Cellulitis and erysipelas (skin infections) (The Basics)
Patient education: Skin and soft tissue infection (cellulitis) (Beyond the Basics)
