What are the treatment and wound care instructions for a patient with a skin infection taking Kelfex (cephalexin) and Kenalog (triamcinolone) to prevent scarring?

Patient Instructions for Skin Infection Treatment with Keflex and Kenalog

Taking Your Antibiotics (Keflex/Cephalexin)

Take Keflex exactly as prescribed to clear your infection and prevent complications. 1, 2

• Standard dosing: Take 500 mg by mouth every 6 hours (four times daily), or your doctor may prescribe 500 mg every 12 hours (twice daily) for convenience 3
• Complete the full course: Continue for 7-14 days even if you feel better, as stopping early can allow the infection to return 3
• Can be taken with or without food: Unlike some antibiotics, Keflex does not need to be taken on an empty stomach 1
• If you miss a dose: Take it as soon as you remember, but if it's almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular schedule 3

Understanding Your Kenalog Injection

The Kenalog (triamcinolone) injection your doctor gave you will help reduce inflammation and speed healing of your skin infection. 4

• How it works: The steroid injection flattens inflamed lesions within 48-72 hours by reducing swelling and redness 4
• This is a one-time treatment: You received the injection in the office; you do not need to apply anything at home unless your doctor prescribed a topical steroid cream 4, 5
• If prescribed topical Kenalog cream: Apply a thin layer to the affected area 2-3 times daily and rub in gently 5

Wound Care to Prevent Scarring

Proper wound care is essential to minimize scarring and promote healing. 4

• Keep the area clean: Gently wash with mild soap and water once or twice daily 4
• Avoid picking or scratching: This is the most important step to prevent scarring—do not touch, squeeze, or pick at the infected area 4
• Moisturize regularly: Apply a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer to prevent dryness and cracking, which can worsen scarring 4
• Protect from sun exposure: UV light can darken healing skin and make scars more visible—use sunscreen SPF 30 or higher on the affected area once healed 4
• Do not use alcohol-based products: Avoid rubbing alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or harsh antiseptics that can delay healing 4

Warning Signs—Call Your Doctor If You Experience:

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if any of these occur: 4, 1

• Worsening redness, swelling, or pain after 48-72 hours of treatment
• Fever above 100.4°F (38°C) or chills
• Pus or drainage that increases or changes color
• Red streaks spreading from the infection site
• Severe diarrhea (more than 3 watery stools per day) while taking Keflex 3, 6
• Allergic reaction symptoms: rash, hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of face/lips/tongue 3

Important Limitations of Your Treatment

Your doctor chose Keflex because your infection is likely caused by common bacteria, but this antibiotic does NOT work against MRSA (methicillin-resistant staph). 1, 2

• If your infection does not improve within 2-3 days, you may need a different antibiotic 1
• Do not share your antibiotics with others or save them for future infections 3
• Avoid alcohol while taking Keflex, as it may increase stomach upset 3

Side Effects from Kenalog Injection

The steroid injection can cause temporary side effects at the injection site: 4

• Skin lightening or darkening (usually temporary)
• Slight depression or dimpling of the skin (rare with proper injection technique)
• Temporary thinning of the skin at the injection site
• These effects typically resolve over several months but report persistent changes to your doctor 4

Additional Tips for Healing

• Change pillowcases and towels daily to avoid reinfection 4
• Do not share personal items like razors, towels, or clothing that touch the infected area 4
• Wash hands frequently with soap and water, especially after touching the infection 4
• Keep fingernails short and clean to minimize damage if you accidentally scratch 4