How to check a child for lice? - briefly
Use a fine-tooth comb on damp hair, starting at the nape, behind the ears, and the crown, and examine each section for live insects and nits attached within a quarter‑inch of the scalp. Repeat the process twice, ensuring no missed spots.
How to check a child for lice? - in detail
To verify the presence of head lice on a youngster, follow a systematic examination that combines visual inspection with the use of specialized tools.
Begin by assembling the necessary items: a fine‑toothed lice comb (preferably metal), a white towel or paper, a bright light source, and a magnifying glass if available. Ensure the child’s hair is clean, dry, and detangled; excess product or oil can obscure nits.
Conduct the inspection in a well‑lit area. Separate the hair into sections, starting at the scalp and moving outward. Using the comb, draw it through each strand from the roots to the tips, wiping the comb on the white towel after each pass. Look for three distinct signs:
- Live insects, which appear as small, grayish or brownish bodies about the size of a sesame seed, moving quickly.
- Nits (lice eggs) attached firmly to the hair shaft within ¼ inch of the scalp; they are oval, yellow‑white, and cannot be brushed off easily.
- Empty egg shells (shell casings) that are translucent and may be mistaken for dandruff but remain attached to the hair.
If any of these elements are observed, repeat the combing process on the entire head to confirm the infestation’s extent. Record the number of live lice and nits to gauge severity.
After the examination, wash the comb in hot, soapy water and disinfect the surrounding area. If live lice are detected, initiate treatment according to the product’s instructions, typically involving a pediculicide shampoo followed by a second application after 7–10 days to eliminate newly hatched insects.
Schedule a follow‑up check one week later, repeating the combing procedure to ensure that no viable nits remain. Maintain regular weekly inspections for at least a month, especially after treatment, to prevent recurrence.
Implement preventive measures: discourage head‑to‑head contact during play, avoid sharing hats, hairbrushes, or headphones, and keep hair tied back when appropriate. Consistent vigilance and prompt action at the first sign of infestation will minimize spread and reduce discomfort for the child.