Apply, or teach family to apply, pediculicide shampoo or rinse.
Read directions several times in quite environment before application.
Make child as comfortable as possible during procedure.
Playing “beauty parlor” adds a dimension of fun as well as providing eye safety.
Use plastic drape to prevent drug getting on other body parts.
Instruct child to shut eyes tightly during application; if irritation occurs, flush well with tepid water.
Don’t use hair dryer.
Use fine toothcomb on dry or slightly damp hair to remove empty nit cases.
Stress importance of second application of pediculicide or shampoo.
Contact community agencies for suggestions for reducing epidemics.
Launder washable items of clothing and linens in hot water and dry in dryer or hot setting for at least 20 minutes.
Soak combs, brushes, and other hair utensils in pediculicide shampoo or lotion for 1 hour or in boiling water for 10 minutes (some advocate placing non-washable, non-cleanable items in a tightly closed plastic bag that remains sealed for 14 days).
Vacuum mattresses and upholstered furniture carefully; pediculosis sprays are not recommended.
Caution children against sharing combs, hats, caps, scarves, coats, or other items used on or near the hair.
Explain or reinforce explanation of the condition and its mode of transmission.
Treat family member with evidence of infestation.
Allay child’s feelings of shame and embarrassment.
Reassure family that anyone can get pediculosis with no association with age,cleanliness, and socioeconomic level.
Caution family against cutting child’s hair or shaving head as treatment or punishment (cutting long hair may help with removal of nit cases)
