How should a head be properly checked for lice? - briefly
Begin by parting the hair into small sections and running a fine‑toothed lice comb from the scalp to the ends, inspecting each strand for live insects or attached nits; repeat on all sections and re‑examine after 24 hours to ensure complete removal.
How should a head be properly checked for lice? - in detail
A thorough inspection begins with preparation. Choose a well‑lit area, preferably with natural light, and lay a clean white towel or sheet on the shoulders to catch any fallen insects. Use a fine‑toothed comb (often called a lice comb) that has teeth spaced 0.2 mm apart; this spacing allows nits and adult lice to be captured without tearing hair.
The examination proceeds in stages:
- Separate hair into sections. Start at the crown, the most common infestation site, and work outward toward the temples, nape, and sideburns. Secure each section with a hair clip before combing.
- Comb each section from the scalp outward, moving the comb slowly and pressing the teeth against the skin. After each pass, wipe the comb on a white tissue or rinse it in a bowl of water to reveal captured specimens.
- Inspect the comb and tissue for live lice (small, brownish insects about the size of a sesame seed) and nits (elongated, oval eggs attached firmly to hair shafts, typically within ¼ inch of the scalp). Nits appear translucent or yellowish; a viable nit will not slide easily when the hair is tugged.
- Repeat the process on the entire scalp, ensuring no area is missed. Pay special attention to the occipital region, behind the ears, and the hairline.
If any lice or nits are found, remove them with the comb, placing each on a disposable container for later disposal. After the inspection, wash the comb in hot, soapy water and disinfect with an alcohol solution. Clean the surrounding area—vacuum carpets, wash bedding, and launder clothing in hot water (minimum 130 °F) to eliminate stray insects.
Document the findings: count the number of live lice and nits, note their locations, and record the date of the examination. This information guides subsequent treatment decisions and helps monitor the effectiveness of any interventions.