What should you do when you discover lice on a child? - briefly
Inspect the child’s hair, apply an FDA‑approved lice treatment, wash all clothing, bedding, and personal items in hot water, and promptly notify the school or daycare to prevent further spread.
What should you do when you discover lice on a child? - in detail
When live lice are identified on a child, immediate action is required to stop the infestation and prevent spread. Follow these steps in order:
- Confirm the presence – Examine the scalp with a fine-toothed comb under bright light. Look for adult insects, nymphs, or viable eggs (nits) attached close to the hair shaft.
- Notify relevant parties – Inform the child’s parents or guardians, school personnel, and any childcare provider. Provide a brief description of the finding and the planned treatment.
- Select an approved treatment – Choose a pediculicide that contains either permethrin 1 % or pyrethrin with a synergist, as recommended by health authorities. Follow the product label precisely, including dosage, application duration, and repeat treatment timing (usually 7–10 days later) to target newly hatched lice.
- Prepare the child – Wash hair with regular shampoo, then apply the medicated product while the hair is still damp. Use a fine-toothed comb to distribute the solution evenly. Dress the child in loose clothing to avoid friction that could dislodge the medication.
- Execute the second application – After the recommended interval, repeat the treatment to eradicate any lice that emerged from eggs missed during the first round.
- Remove residual nits – After the final treatment, comb the hair daily for a week with a nit‑comb, cleaning the comb after each pass. This mechanical removal reduces the chance of re‑infestation.
- Sanitize personal items and environment – Wash the child’s bedding, towels, and clothing in hot water (≥ 130 °F) 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 the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward.
- Educate the child and caregivers – Explain how lice spread through head‑to‑head contact and shared objects such as hats, hairbrushes, and headphones. Encourage regular checks and discourage sharing personal items.
- Monitor and follow up – Conduct weekly inspections for at least four weeks. If live lice persist after two full treatment cycles, consult a healthcare professional for alternative therapies, such as prescription ivermectin or oral lincosamide.
By adhering to this systematic protocol, the infestation can be eliminated efficiently while minimizing disruption to the child’s daily routine.