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The following are the Nurse Protocols for the identification, treatment and management of head lice.

Lice Information

Head lice are small external parasites of the human host (generally heads). Head lice do not spread disease and do not hop or fly. They can, however, spread easily from one person to another. There are three forms of head lice:  nits (eggs), nymphs (immature lice) and adults (lice). Symptoms of head lice infestation may include a feeling of something moving in the hair; itching caused by an allergic reaction to the bites; irritability; and sores on the head caused by scratching that can become infected.

In accordance with the recommendation of the American Academy of Pediatrics and in order not to disrupt the educational process, a student will generally not be excluded from school if he or she has nits. However, in the event of a widespread or uncontrolled infestation, upon the recommendation by the School Physician, students with viable nits may be excluded from school until the infestation is managed as determined by the School Physician or School Nurse.

Lice Protocol

When a possible case of head lice comes to the attention of the School Nurse, the following protocols shall be followed:

• Identify if active head lice exist (infested with live lice or viable nits);

• Maintain confidentiality;

• Contact parent/guardian;

• Screen siblings; notify School Nurses where siblings attend;

• Treatment at home as recommended by healthcare provider;

•  Parents are encouraged to notify families who may have been exposed.

• Educate the family regarding the importance of treatment and systematic combing to remove nits;

• Instruct family to wash clothing, linens in hot water  that have been in contact with the head of the person with lice; 

• Student will be rechecked on return to school and may be examined periodically thereafter.

Classroom Protocol

• Screen the affected K-5 classroom;

• Remind students not to share combs, brushes, hats, etc.;

• Send informational letter home, as appropriate, to inform parents/guardians of a “confirmed case” without identifying student, including tips on what to look for in affected class.

• Provide School Nurse telephone number in case the parent/guardian has any questions.

Additional Resources:

https://www.health.ny.gov/diseases/communicable/pediculosis/fact_sheet.htm

https://www.cdc.gov/parasites/lice/head/index.html

https://sites.google.com/yorktown.org/ycsdhealth/important-information-letter 

Adopted date: September 17, 2018

Amended date: October 2, 2018