If a child has lice, how to remove them? - briefly
Apply a permethrin‑ or dimethicone‑based treatment, follow the label’s timing instructions, and comb the hair thoroughly with a fine‑toothed nit comb to remove live insects and eggs. Wash bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water and repeat the combing after 7–10 days to catch any newly hatched lice.
If a child has lice, how to remove them? - in detail
Treating a child’s infestation requires a systematic approach that combines medication, mechanical removal, and environmental sanitation.
Begin with a thorough assessment. Examine the scalp under bright light, parting hair in sections to locate live insects and nits. Use a fine‑toothed lice comb to confirm presence; multiple nits within a ¼‑inch radius of the scalp indicate active infestation.
Select an appropriate pediculicide. Over‑the‑counter options contain 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % pyrethrin; prescription preparations may include 0.5 % malathion or 0.05 % ivermectin. Follow the label for dosage, application duration, and any required repeat treatment, typically 7–10 days after the first dose to target newly hatched lice.
After applying the product, allow the specified contact time, then rinse thoroughly with warm water. Dry the hair gently, avoiding vigorous rubbing that could irritate the scalp.
Mechanical removal is essential for eliminating nits that survive chemical treatment. Perform combing as follows:
- Apply a conditioner or a specialized lice‑combing spray to reduce friction.
- Starting at the scalp, pull the comb through a ¼‑inch section of hair, moving slowly toward the tips.
- Wipe the comb on a white tissue after each pass to inspect for captured insects.
- Repeat the process for the entire head, cleaning the comb after each section.
Repeat the combing session daily for at least one week, then every other day for an additional week to ensure complete eradication.
Sanitize the child’s environment to prevent re‑infestation. Wash all clothing, bedding, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 130 °F) and dry on high heat. Items that cannot be laundered should be sealed in a plastic bag for two weeks or exposed to a freezer at –4 °F for 24 hours. Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward.
Monitor the scalp for three weeks after treatment. If live insects reappear, repeat the chemical regimen or consult a healthcare professional for alternative therapy.
Document the treatment timeline, products used, and any adverse reactions to guide future interventions and provide a record for healthcare providers.