How should a child's head be treated for lice? - briefly
Apply a pediculicide shampoo as directed, leaving it on the scalp for the specified duration before rinsing. Then comb the hair with a fine-tooth nit comb and repeat the procedure in 7–10 days.
How should a child's head be treated for lice? - in detail
Effective management of head‑lice infestation in a child requires a systematic approach: detection, mechanical removal, pharmacologic treatment, environmental decontamination, and preventive measures.
Detection begins with a thorough visual inspection of the scalp, focusing on the nape of the neck, behind the ears, and the crown. Use a fine‑toothed comb on wet hair; moving the comb from the scalp outward reveals live lice and viable nits attached within 1 mm of the hair shaft.
Mechanical removal is performed with a specialized lice comb. Comb the hair in 4‑step cycles: (1) part hair into sections; (2) run the comb from scalp to tip; (3) wipe the comb on a white surface to expose captured insects; (4) repeat each section until no lice are visible. Conduct this process daily for at least one week to capture newly hatched nymphs.
Pharmacologic treatment involves applying an FDA‑approved pediculicide according to the product’s instructions. Common agents include 1 % permethrin lotion, 0.5 % malathion liquid, or dimethicone‑based creams. Apply the preparation to dry hair, ensuring full coverage of the scalp and hair length; leave for the specified duration (typically 10 minutes) before rinsing. A second application 7–10 days later eliminates any surviving eggs.
Environmental decontamination addresses reinfestation risk. Wash all washable items (clothing, bedding, towels) in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes. Non‑washable objects (stuffed toys, helmets) should be sealed in airtight bags for two weeks or exposed to direct sunlight for 48 hours. Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture to remove detached nits.
Preventive measures reduce recurrence: discourage head‑to‑head contact during play, avoid sharing combs, hats, and hair accessories, and perform weekly scalp checks during peak transmission seasons. Educate caregivers about early signs of infestation and the importance of prompt treatment.
Adhering to this comprehensive protocol eliminates active lice, destroys viable eggs, and minimizes the likelihood of re‑infestation.