How can you see lice on children? - briefly
Inspect the scalp closely—particularly behind the ears and at the nape—using a fine‑toothed comb to separate hair and expose any moving insects or attached eggs («lice»). Visible indicators include tiny white nits secured to hair shafts and persistent itching.
How can you see lice on children? - in detail
Detecting head‑lice infestations in young patients requires systematic visual examination and appropriate tools. The process begins with the child seated in a well‑lit area, preferably using natural daylight or a bright, white lamp that reduces shadows on the scalp. A fine‑tooth lice comb, with teeth spaced 0.2 mm apart, should be placed on damp hair to facilitate grip on the insects and their eggs. Comb the hair from the roots to the tips, paying special attention to the following regions: behind the ears, at the nape of the neck, along the hairline, and on the crown. Repeat the combing several times, wiping the comb after each pass to reveal any captured specimens.
Key visual indicators include:
- Live adult lice: small, gray‑brown insects measuring 2–4 mm, with a flattened body and six legs. They move quickly and may cling to hair shafts.
- Nits (eggs): oval, white or yellowish, firmly attached to the hair shaft within 1 cm of the scalp. They appear immobile and may be mistaken for dandruff; however, nits are typically at an angle to the hair, whereas dandruff lies flat.
- Viable nits: translucent shells with a visible embryo, often darker at one end. Empty shells are more opaque and may be removed without disturbing the scalp.
If initial inspection yields no findings, a magnifying lens (10× or higher) can be employed to enhance detection of small or translucent nits. Some clinicians use portable LED loupes that provide both illumination and magnification, improving accuracy in low‑light environments.
In cases of uncertainty, a “wet comb” method increases reliability: wet the hair with a small amount of conditioner, then comb through with the fine‑tooth device. The moisture slows lice movement, allowing easier capture. After combing, examine the comb teeth on a white surface to confirm presence.
For large groups or school screenings, a systematic approach involves:
- Dividing children into small cohorts.
- Assigning a trained examiner to each cohort.
- Using disposable combs or disinfecting reusable combs between examinations.
- Recording findings on a standardized form to track prevalence.
Prompt identification enables immediate treatment, reduces the risk of secondary spread, and minimizes discomfort for the child.