Pathophysiology Pediculosis capitis otherwise known as headlice in the community, are a very common, very contagious, group of louse that colonize on the human head. It causes severe pruritus.

Pharmacology Pediculicide Permethrin 1% cream rinse (Nix) Pyrethrin products 0.5tt malathion

Labs and Diagnostic Tests: Diagnosis is made by observation of the white eggs (nits) firmly attached to hair shafts.

Evaluation of Nursing Interventions Inspection after treatment will show no result of knits Patient care taker will verbalize Pediculicide instructions, and instructions on management including inspection of the little sister, washing linen, washing toys...etc

Nursing Interventions (3 per goal) Education: nurses should emphasize that anyone can get pediculosis. Children should be cautioned against sharing combs, hair ornaments, hats, caps, coats etc. Inspection: nurses/parents should carefully inspect children who are scratching their heads forredness, bite marks and nits. Treatment: If lice is found the child should be treated with pediculicide. Manual removal of the nits should also be done after the treatment

Patient Safety considerations Secondary infection Possible social Isolation

Expected Patient Outcomes (3 nursing diagnosis) Risk for infection related to scratchingof the scalp evidence by open sores. Fatigue related to intense itching at night evidence by difficulty sleeping. Stress related to isolation/ distancing with friends evidence by feeling ashamed.