How to remove lice from children with dichlorvos? - briefly
Apply a 0.5 % dichlorvos solution to the child’s scalp, leave it for about 10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly and comb out dead insects. Because of the high toxicity of this organophosphate, health authorities advise against its use in children and recommend approved pediculicide products instead.
How to remove lice from children with dichlorvos? - in detail
Dichlorvos, an organophosphate compound, can be employed to eradicate head‑lice infestations in pediatric patients when applied according to strict medical guidelines. The following protocol outlines preparation, application, monitoring, and post‑treatment steps.
The product must be a pharmaceutical‑grade formulation approved for human use. Verify the concentration on the label; typical preparations contain 0.1 % to 0.5 % dichlorvos. Do not use agricultural or industrial versions, which lack safety data for children.
Preparation
- Read the accompanying patient information sheet thoroughly.
- Perform a skin‑sensitivity test on a small area of the scalp 24 hours before full application. Discontinue use if irritation or rash appears.
- Ensure the child’s hair is dry and free of conditioners, oils, or styling products that could impede absorption.
Application
- Measure the recommended dose with the supplied dropper or spray device. Dosage is usually expressed in milliliters per kilogram of body weight; follow the exact figure provided by the prescribing physician.
- Apply the solution evenly across the entire scalp, focusing on the posterior neck region and behind the ears where lice concentrate.
- Allow the liquid to remain for the specified contact time, typically 10–15 minutes. Do not exceed the maximum duration to avoid systemic toxicity.
- Rinse the hair with lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance‑free shampoo. Avoid vigorous scrubbing; gentle rinsing removes residual chemical while preserving the cuticle.
Monitoring
- Observe the child for signs of adverse reactions during and after treatment: excessive salivation, sweating, tremor, nausea, or respiratory distress. Seek immediate medical attention if any symptom manifests.
- Conduct a follow‑up inspection of the scalp after 48 hours. Use a fine‑toothed lice comb to confirm the absence of live lice and viable nits.
- Schedule a second application if live insects persist, respecting the minimum interval (usually 7 days) to prevent re‑infestation.
Post‑treatment care
- Wash all bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water (≥ 60 °C) or seal them in plastic bags for two weeks to eliminate detached eggs.
- Instruct caregivers to avoid sharing hats, hairbrushes, or headphones until the infestation is cleared.
- Consider adjunctive mechanical removal (combing) to reduce residual nits and minimize the need for repeated chemical exposure.
Safety considerations
- Contraindicated in children with known hypersensitivity to organophosphates, hepatic impairment, or severe respiratory conditions.
- Pregnant or lactating mothers should not handle the product; use protective gloves if contact is unavoidable.
- Keep the container out of reach of children; store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight.
Regulatory compliance
- Verify that the dichlorvos preparation is listed in the national pharmacopeia or approved by the relevant health authority.
- Maintain a record of the batch number, expiration date, and prescribing physician’s details for future reference.
By adhering to the outlined steps, clinicians can achieve effective lice eradication while minimizing the risk of toxicity in young patients.