What would you do?

[SaraO'Hara]

I need a bit of advice.

About 2 weeks ago, I got a rash on both sides of my ribcage - but nowhere else. I thought it might be a reaction to INH (taken for pos. PPD), so I called and was seen by the Public Health Department nurse. She told me it was chickenpox, so I stayed off work for 1 week, until it went away. That ended last week.

Last night, the rash came back on one side. I saw my doctor today, who didn't know what it was, except that it isn't chickenpox, and might be a fabric allergy. However, on the chance that it could be contagious, my work doesn't want to see the whites of my eyes until it's gone.

The problem is that I really need the money from work, and I'm concerned about how taking time off will look on my record. Today was the 4th day of work this month I've had to miss.

Knowing that none of my close contacts have come down with this rash, I'm tempted to throw in the towel and just come to work regardless. However, I know that's an irresponsible and possibly harmful option.

What would you do?

[TazziRN, RN]

See a derm

[begalli]

However on the chance that it [i']could[/i] be contagious, my work doesn't want to see the whites of my eyes until it's gone.

I'm dismayed that you would even consider going into work!

See a doctor that can help you identify your rash.

[morte, LPN, LVN]

see derm, in the meantime...consider that you may be having skin reactions to subs in your environment that are not new to you , because of the addition of the medication to your body......try using the mildest of cleaning agents...soaps detergents etc....also, was the ppd followed by a chest xray?? are you foreign born? if so, did you receive the BCG vacine?...good luck

[traumaRUs, MSN, APRN]

Please see a doctor. We can't provide medical advice.