How to test for lice? - briefly
Examine the scalp and hair with a fine‑tooth comb under bright light, searching for live lice or nits attached within ¼ inch of the skin. Re‑inspect after 7–10 days to verify that no new insects have emerged.
How to test for lice? - in detail
Detecting a head‑lice infestation requires a systematic approach that combines visual inspection, specialized tools, and repeat examinations.
Begin with a thorough visual scan of the scalp and hair. Use a bright light and a magnifying lens if available. Look for live insects, which are about the size of a sesame seed, and for nits—oval, whitish or yellowish eggs attached firmly to hair shafts within a quarter‑inch of the scalp. Pay particular attention to the nape of the neck, behind the ears, and the crown region, where lice tend to congregate.
If visual confirmation proves difficult, employ the wet‑comb method. Follow these steps:
- Dampen hair with water and apply a small amount of conditioner to reduce slip.
- Use a fine‑toothed lice comb, spacing the teeth no more than 0.5 mm apart.
- Starting at the scalp, draw the comb through each section of hair, moving from root to tip.
- After each pass, wipe the comb on a white tissue or paper towel; any captured lice or nits will be visible.
- Repeat the process on all sections, then rinse hair to remove residue.
Commercial lice detection kits provide an alternative. Most kits contain a disposable comb and a transparent detection pad. The comb is run through dry hair, and the pad captures any lice that fall off. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for optimal results.
Professional evaluation may be necessary when self‑examination yields ambiguous findings. Dermatologists or trained school health personnel can use a stereomicroscope to differentiate live lice from empty shells and to assess the severity of the infestation.
Because nits can hatch within 7–10 days, a single examination does not guarantee eradication. Schedule follow‑up checks at 7‑day intervals for at least three weeks after initial treatment. During each check, repeat the wet‑comb procedure and remove any newly emerged insects or unhatched eggs.
Document findings after each session: record the number of live lice, the presence of viable nits, and the locations where they were found. This data guides treatment decisions and helps evaluate the effectiveness of interventions.
By adhering to this structured protocol—initial visual assessment, wet‑comb verification, optional kit usage, professional confirmation when needed, and scheduled re‑examinations—one can reliably identify and monitor head‑lice infestations.