Patient Education: Boils

Understanding Boils

A boil is a red, painful bump on the skin that is filled with pus. It happens when a hair follicle or oil gland becomes infected. Boils can appear anywhere on the body but are most common on the face, neck, armpits, shoulders, and buttocks.

Causes

Bacteria, usually Staphylococcus aureus, on the skin
Poor hygiene or unwashed skin
Friction or irritation from clothing or skin rubbing
Weakened immune system
Medical conditions like diabetes

Prevention

Wash hands and skin regularly
Keep skin clean and dry
Avoid sharing personal items like towels or razors
Wear loose clothing to reduce friction
Maintain a healthy lifestyle to keep your immune system strong

Treatment (as per your doctor’s instructions)

Warm compresses may help the boil come to a head and drain naturally.
Do not squeeze or pop the boil at home—this can spread infection.
Clean the area gently with soap and water.
Apply prescribed ointments or antibiotics if instructed.
Cover with a clean dressing to protect the skin and prevent spreading bacteria.
Drainage by a healthcare professional may be needed if the boil is large or not improving.
Follow-up care with your doctor or nurse as directed.

Note: Never try to lance or cut a boil at home.

Wound Dressings

Compromised dressing: Wet, dirty, loose, or has fallen off.
What to do: Wash hands, replace it with a clean dressing, and call your nurse or doctor if needed.

Signs of Complications or Infection

Call your doctor or nurse if you notice:

Redness spreading beyond the boil
Increased swelling or warmth
Pus with foul smell
Fever or chills
Red streaks near the boil
Severe pain

Worsening boil: If the boil enlarges, the skin breaks down, or new boils appear, contact your healthcare provider.

Diet for Wound Healing

Eating the right foods helps your body fight infection and heal faster:

Protein: Chicken, fish, eggs, beans
Vitamin C: Citrus fruits, strawberries, bell peppers
Vitamin A: Carrots, spinach, sweet potatoes
Zinc: Nuts, seeds, whole grains
Hydration: Drink plenty of water

Important: If you have kidney problems, talk to your doctor or home health nurse about safe foods for wound healing.

When to Contact Nurse, Doctor, or Go to the ER

Call your home health nurse or doctor: For routine care, questions, or minor changes.
Go to the emergency room: For large, painful boils, severe spreading redness, fever, chills, or signs of serious infection.

Additional Information

Keep the boil clean and covered
Avoid touching or squeezing the boil
Wash hands before and after caring for the area
Avoid sharing towels, razors, or clothing

Patient Homework / Assessment: Boils True or False

True or False: A boil is a red, painful bump filled with pus.
True or False: Boils are usually caused by bacteria in hair follicles or oil glands.
True or False: You should pop a boil at home to make it heal faster.
True or False: Keeping skin clean can help prevent boils.
True or False: Warm compresses may help a boil come to a head naturally.
True or False: A compromised dressing is wet, dirty, or loose.
True or False: If a dressing is compromised, you should leave it as is.
True or False: Redness, swelling, and pus are signs of infection.
True or False: Fever or chills can indicate a serious infection from a boil.
True or False: Small boils usually heal on their own with proper care.
True or False: Protein, vitamins, and zinc help the body heal boils.
True or False: Drinking water helps with wound healing.
True or False: People with kidney problems can eat any foods for wound healing.
True or False: Call your nurse for minor changes or questions about your boil.
True or False: Friction and tight clothing can contribute to boil formation.
True or False: Covering a boil helps prevent spreading bacteria.
True or False: Large, painful boils with spreading redness may require emergency care.
True or False: Wash your hands before and after caring for a boil.
True or False: Avoid sharing personal items to prevent boils.
True or False: Following your doctor’s instructions is important for proper healing.

Answer Key & Explanations

True – Boils are red, painful bumps filled with pus.
True – Bacteria in hair follicles or oil glands usually cause boils.
False – Popping a boil at home can spread infection.
True – Clean skin reduces risk of boils.
True – Warm compresses can help the boil come to a head.
True – A compromised dressing is wet, dirty, or loose.
False – Compromised dressings should be replaced with a clean one.
True – Redness, swelling, and pus indicate infection.
True – Fever or chills can signal serious infection.
True – Small boils can heal with proper home care.
True – Protein, vitamins, and zinc support healing.
True – Hydration is important for wound healing.
False – Kidney patients should consult their provider about safe foods.
True – Call your nurse for questions or minor changes.
True – Friction and tight clothing can irritate skin and cause boils.
True – Covering a boil helps prevent infection spread.
True – Large, spreading, or painful boils may require ER care.
True – Hand hygiene prevents spreading bacteria.
True – Sharing personal items can spread bacteria that cause boils.
True – Following medical instructions ensures proper healing.