Word parts
What it means
Inflammation of the skin where it has touched an irritant or allergen. Irritant contact dermatitis comes from things like soaps, cleaners, frequent hand washing and urine or stool on the skin. Allergic contact dermatitis is a delayed allergy to things such as poison ivy, nickel, fragrances or latex. The rash is red, itchy and may blister, usually in the shape of where the contact was.
For the nurse
Find and avoid the cause. For health care workers, use moisturizers, alcohol hand rubs rather than repeated soap washing when appropriate, and report suspected latex allergy. Protect clients' skin from urine and stool with barrier creams.
At a glance
| Spanish | dermatitis de contacto |
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Related terms
allergy
A reaction of the immune system to a substance that is harmless to most people.
hypersensitivity
An overreaction of the immune system to a substance that is usually harmless.
atopic dermatitis
A long-term inflammatory skin condition in which the skin barrier is weak; the most common type of eczema.
glove
A covering for the hand worn to protect the wearer and the client from germs, body fluids and chemicals.