How can you check if a child has lice?

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How can you check if a child has lice? - briefly
Examine the scalp and hair using a fine-toothed comb, searching for live insects or nits attached within a quarter‑inch of the hair shaft near the roots.

How can you check if a child has lice? - in detail
A reliable examination begins with a calm environment and adequate lighting. Use a bright lamp or natural daylight and have the child seated comfortably, preferably on a high chair or at a table where the head can be tilted slightly backward.

Prepare the hair.

Wet the scalp thoroughly; moisture slows lice movement and makes them easier to see.
Apply a generous amount of conditioner or a lice‑specific detangling spray to reduce tangles and improve comb glide.

Section the hair.

Divide the hair into 1‑inch (2‑cm) sections using clips or hair ties.
Work from the crown toward the nape, processing each section systematically.

Inspect with a fine‑toothed comb.

Use a lice comb with teeth spaced 0.2–0.3 mm apart.
Starting at the scalp, pull the comb through each section from root to tip.
After each pass, wipe the comb on a white tissue or rinse it in a bowl of water to reveal any captured insects or eggs.

Examine the combed material.

Live lice appear as gray‑brown insects, 2–4 mm long, with six legs.
Nits (lice eggs) are oval, 0.8 mm, and firmly attached to hair shafts within ¼ inch of the scalp; they may appear tan, white, or brown.
Discard any found specimens in a sealed container for later verification if desired.

Repeat the process.

Perform the combing on all sections twice to ensure thorough coverage.
Re‑examine the scalp and behind the ears, as these are common infestation sites.

Additional checks

Use a magnifying glass (10×) to scan the hairline, behind the ears, and the nape for nits that may be missed by the comb.
Inspect frequently shared items (hats, hairbrushes, helmets) for lice or nits, especially after school or sports activities.
Examine bedding, pillowcases, and clothing for detached nits; these are usually yellow‑brown and may be found in seams or folds.

If lice are detected

Initiate treatment with a recommended pediculicide or a non‑chemical option such as dimethicone, following the product’s instructions precisely.
Conduct a second combing session 7–10 days after the initial treatment to eliminate newly hatched lice.
Wash clothing, bedding, and personal items in hot water (≥ 130 °F / 54 °C) or seal them in a plastic bag for two weeks to kill any surviving stages.
Notify the child’s school or daycare to prevent further spread.

A systematic, repeatable combing routine combined with careful visual inspection provides the most accurate determination of a head‑lice presence. Regular checks after suspected exposure help contain infestations promptly.