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HEAD LICE |
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CONDITION:� |
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Pediculosis capitas (Head Lice)
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EXCLUSION:� |
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Exclude until morning after treatment with lice-killing shampoo and thorough nit removal.� Most homes/centers have a no nit policy also. Know your program's policy concerning child returning after lice infestation.
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PREVENTION:� |
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Early detectino is best and avoid physical contact with infested person and their belongings; always keep belongings of children separated; wash and dry all items that come in contact with infected person.
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WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW: |
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Infestation by a tiny parasitic insect on the scalp and hair
Signs and syptoms: Persistent itching on scalp; Tiny red bites on scalp and on hairline
Diagnosed by finding tiny yellow/white eggs, called nits, firmly attached to shaft of hair. Adult lice are harder to find.
Nits found all along hair shaft and all over head, but especially at the crown, nape of neck, and behind ears
Nits are most easily seen and removed when hair is partially or completely dry
Highly contagious
Transferred from person to person by crawling lice or when children share personal items such as hats, combs, and brushes
Not caued by uncleanliness
Lice cannot jump or fly
Not carried by cats or dogs
Requires thorough treatment of all family members who have head lice at the same time
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WHAT YOU CAN DO AS A CAREGIVER: |
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Notify child's parent and have child picked up immediately
Notify all parents of a case of lice, but maintain confidentiality
Machine was all washable items in hot water, including bed linens, blankets, towels, clothing, jackets, and hats.
Use hot setting on dryer for non-washables
Place pillows and stuffed animals in dryer on hot setting for 30 minutes
Place items that cannot be washed or dried in a closed plastic bag for 2 weeks
Vacuum upholstered furniture, mattresses, rugs, car seats, and stuffed toys
Do not use lice sprays
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WHAT YOU CAN DO AS A PARENT: |
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Follow Caregivers recommendations
Treat with lice-killing shampoo as recommended by child's health care provider. Follow package directions and wear disposable gloves when applying shampoo.
Apply shampoo at the sink, never in the bathtub, to minimize skin exposed to pesticide
Safest if a pregnant or nursing mother does not apply shampoo, even if wearing gloves
Do not use lice-killing shampoo if cut or other open wound is present on scalp
Do not use lice-killing shampoo on infants
Treat all family members who have head lice at the same time
Remove all nits with small metal nit comb available in mose pharmacies, or with fingernails
Check all family members' heads daily for 10 days
May have to repeat full treatment in 1 week
Scrub hair brushes, combs, and hair accessories, and then soak them in very hot water for 10 minutes
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