How should a tick be removed from a person’s head? - briefly
«Grasp the tick with fine‑point tweezers as close to the scalp as possible and pull upward with steady, even pressure, avoiding compression of the body.» «After extraction, cleanse the area with antiseptic and inspect the site daily for several weeks for signs of rash or infection.»
How should a tick be removed from a person’s head? - in detail
Removing a tick attached to the scalp requires precision and hygiene. First, gather a pair of fine‑pointed tweezers, disposable gloves, antiseptic solution, and a clean container for the specimen if testing is desired. Wear gloves to prevent direct contact with the arthropod and potential pathogens.
Locate the tick’s mouthparts. Using the tweezers, grasp the tick as close to the skin surface as possible, securing the head and not the body. Apply steady, upward traction; avoid squeezing the abdomen or twisting, which can cause the mouthparts to break off and remain embedded. If resistance is encountered, maintain gentle pressure rather than jerking, which reduces the risk of tissue damage.
After extraction, place the tick in a sealed container for identification if required. Clean the bite site with antiseptic, then cover with a sterile bandage. Observe the area for several days, noting any redness, swelling, or flu‑like symptoms that may indicate infection. Seek medical evaluation if the tick was attached for more than 24 hours, if the individual develops a rash, fever, or if the tick species is unknown.
For infants, individuals with extensive hair, or when the tick is in a hard‑to‑reach location, consider professional removal by a healthcare provider to ensure complete extraction and minimize complications.