Children - Nappy Rash

Question 1

Nappy Rash

Answer 1

Nappy rash is the inflammation of the skin in the nappy area

Question 2

Symptoms of nappy rash

Answer 2

• Skin in the nappy area looks red and raw and can present with white or red pimples
• Sore or itchy when the area is wiped
• Your baby may be unsettled or irritable

Question 3

Questions to ask

Answer 3

Any recent diarrhoea
- Sometimes occurs during or after bout of diarrhoea
How long has baby had nappy rash

Question 4

Common causes of nappy rash

Answer 4

Most due to a reaction of the skin to urine and faeces

Skin conditions i.e. Eczema, psoriasis

Fungal infection

Allergy to soap, bubble bath etc.

Question 5

Fungal infection nappy rash

Answer 5

Nappy rash thrush
- When the skin is damaged by irritants it is more likely that candida (a yeast which lives naturally on the skin) will overgrow, causing candidal nappy rash.

Question 6

Fungal infection symptoms

Answer 6

• Skin appears shiny
• Rash surrounded by areas of broken skin

Question 7

Bacterial infection symptoms

Answer 7

Yellow crusts

Question 8

Red flag symptoms

Answer 8

Broken skin
Signs of infection
Other body areas affected
Unwell baby
Severe rash
Persistent rash

Question 9

Treatment options

Answer 9

Metanium ointment
Sudocrem

Question 10

Metanium ointment

Answer 10

Specifically formulated to soothe and treat your baby’s nappy rash.
- Can be used from birth onwards

Question 11

Non- pharmacological advice

Answer 11

• Change nappy frequently
• Clean the bottom with warm water and cotton wool rather than wipes
• Dry the nappy area thoroughly
• Leave nappy off for as long as possible: so air is able to circulate around the skin, helping affected area remain dry
• Avoid using talcum powder
• Make sure that the baby is drinking plenty of fluids
• Ensure to dress in loose fitting bottoms

Question 12

Referral

Answer 12

• 2+ weeks, depending on the nature and severity of the rash.
• Treatment failure (no improvement after 1 week)