What are the best ways to get rid of poison ivy?

To get rid of poison ivy, use heavy gloves to pull the plant from the ground, or using an herbicide to kill the plant, suggests Mayo Clinic. To get rid of a poison ivy rash, doctors prescribe an oral or topical steroid or antihistamine, notes MedlinePlus.

Self-care methods, such as washing the affected area with soapy water or flushing the eyes with plain water, may prevent a reaction if done within minutes of exposure, explains MedlinePlus. Clothing and other items that come into contact with the plant's sap should be washed immediately and thoroughly, as poison ivy sap can still cause a reaction many months after the initial contamination, explains Mayo Clinic.