What is used to treat lice in a medical facility? - briefly
Medical facilities treat head‑lice infestations primarily with prescription topical agents, most commonly 1% permethrin cream rinse or 0.5% malathion lotion applied as directed. Oral ivermectin is reserved for cases that fail topical therapy or for patients unable to use it.
What is used to treat lice in a medical facility? - in detail
Pediculosis capitis requires prompt, evidence‑based management in clinical environments. Effective therapy combines topical agents, systemic medication when indicated, and environmental decontamination.
Topical pediculicides approved for use in health‑care facilities include:
- 1 % permethrin cream rinse, applied to dry hair for ten minutes, then rinsed; safe for children ≥ 2 months.
- Pyrethrins combined with piperonyl‑butoxide, applied for ten minutes; contraindicated in patients with known insecticide allergy.
- 0.5 % malathion lotion, left on hair for eight to twelve hours; reserved for resistant infestations, not suitable for infants < 6 weeks.
- 5 % benzyl alcohol lotion, applied for ten minutes; avoids neurotoxic risk, but ineffective against eggs.
- 0.5 % ivermectin lotion, applied for ten minutes; approved for patients ≥ 6 months, useful for resistant strains.
- 0.9 % spinosad suspension, applied for ten minutes; effective against both lice and nits, limited data in children < 12 months.
Mechanical removal strategies:
- Fine‑tooth nit combs used with wet shampoo, repeated every two to three days for two weeks.
- Manual extraction under magnification for severe cases; requires trained personnel.
Systemic therapy:
- Oral ivermectin 200 µg/kg single dose, repeat after seven days for persistent infestation; contraindicated in pregnant or lactating women.
Environmental control measures:
- Wash bedding, clothing, and towels at ≥ 60 °C or seal in plastic bags for 72 hours.
- Vacuum upholstered furniture and carpeting; avoid insecticide sprays in patient rooms.
Follow‑up protocol:
- Re‑examine scalp 7–10 days after initial treatment; retreat if live lice detected.
- Document resistance patterns; consider alternative agents if treatment failure recurs.
The integrated approach—approved topical agents, optional oral medication, thorough combing, and strict environmental hygiene—provides reliable eradication of head‑lice infestations in medical settings.