http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/schoolhealth/lice.htm
http://www.nasn.org/Default.aspx?tabid=623
HEAD LICE
• Tiny(sesame seed sized) grey to brown insects that live in human hair.
• Tiny white oval-shaped eggs/nits on strands of hair near the scalp.
• Most often found in the hair around ears and back of head and neck.
First sign: itchy scalp
TREATMENT (lice only live 24 hours off host)
1. Over-the-counter FDA-approved shampoo treatment
2. METAL nit comb to remove nits and dead lice
3. Soak combs/brushes in diluted lice shampoo for 1 hour;or very hot water
for 5-10 minutes. Don't share items.
4. Second treatment in 8-10 days(follow the product intructions)
CONTROLLING ENVIRONMENT
1. Learn to recognize lice/how lice are spread; check hair weekly; ONLY those
with lice should be treated.
2. Report to the school nurse; live lice are sent home for treatment with
head recheck after 10 days-persistent cases are advised to contact physician
to verify treatment failure or alternative treatment.
3. Excessive cleaning not recommended-Wash recently used clothing, towels
bedding material and stuffed animals the child sleeps with in hot water and
dry on highest setting; not recommended to use insecticide spray on
furniture, or carpet. Not necessary to bag all stuffed animals.
4. Throw pillow in dryer daily and put on fresh pillowcase.
EXCLUSION
Evidence doesn't show exclusion reduces transmission. No other minor medical
condition warrants school exclusion. The "NO NIT" policies have not put an
end to lice infestation.
Only the student's parents will be notified to pick up and treat.
The student's condition will remain confidential.
Classroom/school wide notifications increase public alarm and bring undue
attention to the student with lice. Head check notice may be sent for 2 or
more cases in same room, the same week.
SCREENING
Mass screenings are disruptive and not warranted. RRISD will not conduct mass
screenings. Mass screenings increase the potential for lice phobia and
unnecessary use of lice medication that can cause lice to be resistant to
treatment. It is the parent's responsibility to check their students' head
once a week. If the teacher notices excessive head scratching the student
can be sent to the clinic for a head check. A student's lice issue should
not be discussed with anyone other than custodial parent/guardian.
