The biggest key with poison ivy is prevention. Know what poison ivy looks like and avoid it by staying away and by wearing pants and closed-toe shoes while hiking. Wash clothes right away, since any of the urushiol (oil in the ivy) could cause a reaction even weeks after originally brushing on the clothes.
If poison ivy got on the skin, wash with dishwashing detergent. It's designed to cut grease and oil, so it will help clear off the urushiol. This is also true for any gardening tools or pets that are exposed. If the skin reacts, apply a cool milk compress to relieve the rash, and consider taking an antihistamine.
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