Diaper rash and impetigo

Ordinary nappy dermatitis is usually linked with moisture, stool, urine, and friction. Impetigo may start where the skin is scratched or broken. It can produce fragile blisters, moist sores, or yellow-brown crusts, and nearby skin may become red and tender. Because yeast and bacterial infections can look different from simple irritation, a clinician may need to inspect the area rather than relying on a photograph or one symptom.

Arrange medical advice if infection is suspected. Until then, wash hands before and after every nappy change, use separate towels, keep the child’s nails short, and avoid picking crusts or squeezing blisters. Clean gently with lukewarm water, pat dry, change nappies promptly, and avoid sharing creams unless a clinician has advised them. Keep any prescribed treatment on the schedule given, and keep the child away from close-contact activities if a clinician advises this.

Seek prompt care for spreading redness, increasing warmth or swelling, pus, fever, significant pain, or sores near the eyes. Urgent assessment is needed if the child appears very unwell, is difficult to wake, or has rapidly worsening skin. Infection can spread through touch, so mention new spots on household members.

Ask whether the rash looks like impetigo, which cleansing routine is suitable, when the child can return to childcare, and how to reduce spread at home.