Skin Abscess in Children: Care Instructions

Overview

A skin abscess is a bacterial infection that forms a pocket of pus. A boil is a kind of skin abscess. The doctor may have cut an opening in the abscess so that the pus can drain out. Your child may have gauze in the cut so that the abscess will stay open and keep draining. Your child may need antibiotics. You will need to follow up with your doctor to make sure the infection has gone away.

The doctor has checked your child carefully, but problems can develop later. If you notice any problems or new symptoms, get medical treatment right away.

Follow-up care is a key part of your child's treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and contact your doctor if your child is having problems. It's also a good idea to know your child's test results and keep a list of the medicines your child takes.

How can you care for your child at home?

• Apply a warm washcloth 3 or 4 times a day to help the abscess heal.
• If the doctor prescribed antibiotics for your child, give them as directed. Do not stop using them just because your child feels better. Your child needs to take the full course of antibiotics.
• Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
  • If your child is not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask your doctor if your child can take an over-the-counter medicine.
  • If the doctor gave your child a prescription medicine for pain, give it as prescribed.
  • Store your child’s prescription pain medicines where no one else can get to them. When you are done using them, dispose of them quickly and safely. Your local pharmacy or hospital may have a drop-off site.
• Keep your child's bandage clean and dry. Change the bandage whenever it gets wet or dirty, or at least once a day.
• If the abscess was packed with gauze, go to all follow-up appointments to have the gauze changed or removed. If the doctor told you to remove the gauze, follow the instructions you were given for how to remove it.

When should you call for help?

Contact your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

• Your child has symptoms of worsening infection, such as:
  • Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness.
  • Red streaks leading from the area.
  • Pus draining from the area.
  • A fever.

Watch closely for changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

• Your child does not get better as expected.