How can lice and nits be removed with dichlorvos from a child? - briefly
Apply a dichlorvos‑based lice treatment to the child’s hair, following the manufacturer’s instructions for dosage, thorough scalp coverage, and the specified exposure time before rinsing; repeat the application after 7–10 days to eradicate any newly hatched eggs.
How can lice and nits be removed with dichlorvos from a child? - in detail
Dichlorvos, an organophosphate insecticide, can be employed to eradicate head‑lice infestations in pediatric patients, but its use demands strict adherence to safety protocols because of its high toxicity. The following procedure outlines a medically supervised approach.
- Verify the child’s age, weight, and medical history. Contraindications include known hypersensitivity to organophosphates, respiratory disorders, and liver or kidney impairment.
- Obtain a prescription from a qualified healthcare professional. The label‑approved concentration for topical use is typically 0.1 % (1 g per litre of carrier).
- Prepare a calibrated applicator (e.g., a spray bottle with a metered dose). Dilute the product in a non‑flammable carrier such as water or a mild oil according to the pharmacist’s instructions.
- Conduct a skin‑patch test: apply a small amount to a limited scalp area, wait 15 minutes, and observe for erythema, itching, or respiratory distress. Discontinue if any adverse reaction occurs.
- Apply the solution uniformly to the entire scalp, ensuring coverage of hair shafts and the nape of the neck. Avoid contact with eyes, mucous membranes, and broken skin.
- Allow the agent to remain for the manufacturer‑specified exposure time, usually 10–15 minutes. During this interval keep the child seated in a well‑ventilated area to reduce inhalation risk.
- Rinse the scalp thoroughly with lukewarm water and a mild, non‑medicated shampoo. Repeat the washing process twice to ensure removal of residual chemical.
- After the initial treatment, schedule a follow‑up examination 7–10 days later. At that visit, repeat the application if live lice are still observed; otherwise, proceed to mechanical removal of remaining nits using a fine‑toothed comb.
- Maintain a clean environment: wash bedding, hats, and clothing in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and vacuum upholstered surfaces.
Monitoring for systemic toxicity is essential. Observe the child for signs such as excessive salivation, muscle weakness, tremors, or respiratory difficulty. If any symptoms emerge, seek emergency medical care and inform clinicians that dichlorvos exposure has occurred.
Given the narrow therapeutic margin of organophosphates, many pediatric guidelines recommend alternative pediculicides (e.g., permethrin 1 % or ivermectin) or non‑chemical methods as first‑line options. Dichlorvos should be reserved for cases where other treatments have failed and must be administered only under direct medical supervision.