How can I determine the presence of lice on a child's head?

How can I determine the presence of lice on a child's head? - briefly

Check the scalp using a fine-toothed lice comb, looking for live insects or tiny, oval nits glued to hair shafts, especially behind the ears and at the nape. Confirm any findings by pulling out suspected nits and inspecting them for a clear, white or brown shell attached to the hair.

How can I determine the presence of lice on a child's head? - in detail

Detecting head‑lice infestations requires a systematic visual examination and, when necessary, supplemental tools. Begin by preparing a well‑lit area and a fine‑toothed lice comb. Separate the child’s hair from the scalp, ideally after a light wash that leaves the hair damp, because wet strands hold lice and their eggs more securely.

Visual inspection
- Part the hair in sections of 1–2 cm, moving from the crown toward the forehead, ears, and neck.
- Look for live insects, which are gray‑brown, about the size of a sesame seed, and may move rapidly.
- Search for nits attached firmly to the hair shaft within ¼ inch of the scalp; they appear as tiny, oval, yellow‑white or brownish shells.
Comb method
- Place a drop of water on the comb’s teeth to reduce static.
- Run the comb from the scalp outward, wiping each stroke on a white paper towel or disposable surface.
- Examine the towel for captured lice or nits; repeat until no additional specimens appear after several passes.
Microscopic confirmation (optional)
- If uncertainty persists, a handheld magnifier (10–20×) can clarify ambiguous particles.
Documentation
- Record the number and location of live insects and viable nits. Presence of more than one live louse or any nits attached within the close‑to‑scalp zone confirms infestation.
Follow‑up
- Re‑examine the child 7–10 days after initial treatment to ensure all newly hatched lice are removed.

Accurate detection hinges on thorough sectioning, consistent combing, and careful observation of both adult insects and their eggs.