If a child has lice and nits, what should be done?

If a child has lice and nits, what should be done? - briefly

Apply an FDA‑approved lice treatment to the child’s hair, then use a fine‑toothed comb to remove all nits, repeating the process after 7‑10 days. Wash all clothing, bedding, and personal items in hot water or seal them in a plastic bag for two weeks.

If a child has lice and nits, what should be done? - in detail

When a child is found to have head‑lice and their eggs, immediate treatment is required to eliminate the infestation and prevent spread. The following protocol covers identification, medication, environmental control, and follow‑up.

1. Confirm the presence of live insects and viable eggs by inspecting the scalp, especially behind the ears and at the nape of the neck. Use a fine‑toothed comb on damp hair to separate lice from debris.

2. Apply an approved pediculicide according to the product label. Options include:

   • Permethrin 1 % lotion, left on the scalp for 10 minutes before rinsing.
   • Dimethicone‑based silicone lotion, applied for 10 minutes and then washed out.
   • Malathion 0.5 % cream rinse, applied for 8–12 minutes (reserve for resistant cases).

3. After the first treatment, comb the hair with a nit‑comb every 2–3 days for a full week. This removes remaining eggs and any newly hatched lice.

4. Perform a second application of the medication 7–10 days after the initial dose to eradicate any lice that survived the first round because they hatched after the first treatment.

5. Clean personal items and the environment:

   • Wash clothing, hats, pillowcases, and bedding used in the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 130 °F/54 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat.
   • Seal non‑washable items in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks.
   • Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard vacuum bags promptly.
   • Do not fumigate the home; chemical sprays are unnecessary and may be hazardous.

6. Notify the child’s school or childcare provider so that they can conduct screenings and implement any required policies.

7. Monitor the child’s scalp daily for at least two weeks. If live insects are still observed after the second treatment, consult a healthcare professional for alternative therapy, such as oral ivermectin or prescription‑strength topical agents.

8. Educate caregivers and the child on avoidance measures:

   • Discourage head‑to‑head contact during play.
   • Avoid sharing combs, hats, hair accessories, and headphones.
   • Perform routine checks every two weeks during peak transmission seasons.

By following this structured approach, the infestation can be eradicated efficiently, and the risk of recurrence is minimized.