Eczema

(ek’-ze-ma). An eruption on the skin; not contagious, but very unpleasant, and causing great irritation. The local remedies are often left to the nurse to apply; washing is to be avoided as a rule, and no soap used. To remove crusts, soak with oil, or apply poultices; some dusting powder will probably be ordered. For the face, ointment, as a rule, is applied on a mask of lint. Children’s hands must be gloved or tied to their sides, to prevent scratching. A chill will increase the disease in children. — s. 49 —