How to prepare for a video visit about Lice (Pediculosis)

Audience: pediatric

Lice (Pediculosis) are tiny insects that live on the scalp and hair, often causing itching and discomfort in children. Preparing for a video visit about lice can help you get the most from your appointment. During the visit, a healthcare provider can guide you on how to identify lice and nits (lice eggs), discuss treatment options, and advise on ways to prevent spreading lice to others. It is helpful to have good lighting and a quiet space for the video call. While telemedicine can support education and treatment advice, it cannot replace a hands-on examination or emergency care. If your child has severe itching, a rash, fever, or signs of infection, seek in-person medical help promptly. This guide will help you prepare for your video visit, know what telemedicine can and cannot do, and understand the next steps after your appointment.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Child develops a high fever or feels very unwell — seek emergency care immediately.
• Signs of skin infection such as redness, swelling, pus, or pain around the scalp or neck — see a healthcare provider in person.
• Severe allergic reaction to lice treatment (e.g., rash, difficulty breathing, swelling of face or throat) — call emergency services immediately.

What telemedicine can do

• Providing education about lice and how to identify them.
• Guiding on proper use of lice treatments and combing techniques.
• Answering questions about prevention and household cleaning.
• Assessing visible signs of lice or nits via video.
• Advising when in-person care is needed.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing a physical examination beyond what video allows.
• Diagnosing severe skin infections or allergic reactions requiring urgent care.
• Prescribing certain medications that require in-person evaluation.
• Treating complications like secondary infections directly via telemedicine.

What are lice and how do they spread?

Lice are tiny insects that live on the scalp and feed on human blood. They spread mainly through close head-to-head contact, which is common among children during play or school. Lice do not jump or fly, but they can move quickly through hair. Sharing hats, combs, or pillows may also spread lice, but this is less common. Understanding how lice spread helps prevent new cases.

Preparing for your video visit

Before your video visit, find a quiet, well-lit space where you can clearly show your child's scalp and hair. Have a fine-toothed comb or lice comb ready to help part the hair during the call. It may help to have a family member assist with holding the camera or helping your child stay still. Write down any questions or concerns to discuss with the healthcare provider.

What to expect during the video visit

The healthcare provider will ask about your child's symptoms and exposure to lice. You may be asked to show the child's scalp and hair on camera to look for lice or nits. The provider will explain treatment options, including medicated shampoos and combing techniques. They will also give advice on cleaning bedding and household items to prevent re-infestation.

How to treat lice safely at home

Treatment often involves using over-the-counter or prescription lice shampoos. Follow the instructions carefully. Combing wet hair with a fine-toothed comb helps remove lice and nits. Repeat treatments may be needed after 7 to 10 days. Avoid sharing personal items, and wash bedding and clothing in hot water to kill lice and eggs.

When to seek in-person medical care

If your child develops a rash, swelling, fever, or signs of infection like pus or increasing redness, seek in-person medical care promptly. Also, if lice persist despite treatment, or if you have concerns about allergic reactions to treatment products, a face-to-face visit may be necessary.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Find a quiet, well-lit room for the video visit.
• Have a fine-toothed lice comb or regular comb ready.
• Prepare to show your child's scalp and hair clearly on camera.
• Write down any questions or concerns you have.
• Have a family member help hold the camera or assist your child if needed.
• Ensure your device is charged and connected to the internet.
• Gather any previous treatment products or medical records related to lice if available.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the treatment plan and instructions given by the healthcare provider.
• Use a lice comb regularly to remove lice and nits.
• Wash bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water to prevent re-infestation.
• Avoid sharing hats, combs, or pillows with others.
• Monitor your child for any signs of skin infection or allergic reaction.
• Schedule a follow-up visit if symptoms persist or worsen.
• Keep your child home from group settings until lice are fully treated to prevent spreading.

FAQs

Can lice jump from one person to another?

No, lice cannot jump or fly. They spread mainly through direct head-to-head contact.

How long does it take to get rid of lice?

Treatment usually takes about 7 to 10 days, including repeated combing and sometimes a second treatment to kill newly hatched lice.

Are lice dangerous?

Lice are not dangerous but can cause itching and discomfort. Scratching may lead to skin infections if not managed.

Can I use home remedies to treat lice?

Some home remedies exist, but their effectiveness varies. It's best to follow advice from a healthcare provider and use approved treatments.

When should I see a doctor in person?

Seek in-person care if your child has signs of infection, severe allergic reactions to treatment, or if lice persist despite treatment.

Sources

1. Head Lice — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
2. Lice and Scabies — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
3. Head Lice — Mayo Clinic.
4. Pediculosis (Lice) — Merck Manuals Consumer Version.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your child has severe symptoms, signs of infection, or an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical attention from a healthcare provider in person.