How can the presence of lice on a child's head be determined? - briefly
Examine the scalp and hair using a magnifying lens or a fine‑tooth comb, searching for live lice and nits attached directly to the hair shaft. Nits appear as small, oval, yellow‑brown shells tightly glued near the scalp.
How can the presence of lice on a child's head be determined? - in detail
Detecting head‑lice infestation in a child requires a systematic visual and tactile examination of the scalp and hair. The following steps provide a comprehensive approach.
First, prepare the environment. Choose a well‑lit area or use a portable lamp that casts bright, direct light. A fine‑toothed lice comb, preferably metal, should be clean and dry. If the child’s hair is long, part it into sections of about two inches to expose the scalp.
Second, conduct a wet‑comb inspection. Dampen the hair with water or a light spray of conditioner to reduce hair elasticity, making it easier to slide the comb through. Starting at the scalp, draw the comb down to the ends of the hair in a single, slow motion. After each pass, wipe the comb on a white paper towel or rinse it in a bowl of water. Look for three indicators:
- Live insects, which are gray‑brown, about the size of a sesame seed, and move quickly.
- Nits (eggs) attached firmly to the hair shaft within a quarter‑inch of the scalp; they appear as tiny, oval, white or yellowish specks.
- Empty egg shells, which are translucent and may be mistaken for debris.
Third, repeat the combing process on each section of hair, ensuring that the entire scalp, especially behind the ears, at the nape, and along the hairline, is examined. A thorough session typically requires 10–15 passes per section.
Fourth, perform a visual inspection without a comb. Use a magnifying glass if available. Scan the hair shafts for nits that may have been missed, focusing on the same high‑risk areas. Note any signs of irritation, such as redness, itching, or small bite marks, which can corroborate the presence of an infestation.
Fifth, document findings. Record the number of live lice and nits observed, as well as their locations. This information helps determine the severity of the infestation and guides treatment decisions.
Finally, if no lice or nits are found after a complete examination, consider a repeat check in 7–10 days, because eggs may hatch after the initial inspection. Consistent monitoring reduces the risk of missed early infestations.
By following these precise steps—adequate lighting, systematic wet‑combing, meticulous visual scanning, and documentation—parents, caregivers, or health professionals can reliably ascertain whether a child is harboring head lice.