Patient Handouts Help Northwell Resident Gain Patient Trust

Tyler M., a resident at Northwell Health, shares how he uses VisualDx patient handouts to improve patient-provider relationship:

A 41-year-old male presented for a televisit with linear arrangement of vesicles and crust on extremities, consistent with poison ivy-induced dermatitis. I was able to send this patient an email with the patient care handout available on VisualDx, which he really appreciated. The patient was very satisfied with his televisit experience.

What is poison ivy?

Poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac dermatitis is a contact dermatitis (type IV delayed hypersensitivity immune reaction) to an oily resin (urushiol) found on the leaves and in the stems and roots of plants of the Rhus genus (poison ivy, oak, and sumac). The dermatitis occurs in previously sensitized individuals, usually appearing 48 hours after antigen exposure. It is typically seen on the extremities at sites of contact with the plant and appears as erythematous, linear plaques with associated vesicles and bullae. If not washed away, the resin may be easily and unwittingly transferred to other body locations, including the trunk, genital area, and face, where it will incite the same reaction. Pruritus is generally severe.

What should we be aware of when making a diagnosis?

How can we treat this?

• In severe cases involving large body areas, a 14-20 day course of oral steroids.
• In cases with more limited skin involvement, medium- to high-potency topical steroids may be used to treat the trunk and extremities, while low-potency topical steroids may be prescribed to treat the face and skin fold areas.
• Oral antihistamines may be prescribed for itching.
• Topical or oral antibiotics may be needed if an infection is suspected.