What Happens After a Telemedicine Visit for Lice (Pediculosis) in Children

Audience: pediatric

After a telemedicine visit for lice (pediculosis) in children, you will receive guidance on how to treat and manage the condition at home. The healthcare provider will typically confirm the diagnosis based on images or video and recommend safe treatments such as medicated shampoos or lotions. They will also advise on how to remove lice and nits (eggs) carefully and how to clean personal items to prevent reinfestation. Follow-up care may be suggested to check if the treatment worked. It is important to watch for signs of infection or worsening symptoms, which may require in-person care. Telemedicine helps families get quick advice without leaving home but cannot replace physical examination when complications arise. Always follow the treatment plan and reach out if symptoms do not improve.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Redness, swelling, or pus on the scalp indicating possible infection — seek in-person care immediately.
• High fever or swollen lymph nodes accompanying scalp symptoms — get urgent medical evaluation.
• Severe itching that does not improve after treatment — contact your healthcare provider for further assessment.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial diagnosis of lice based on video or images.
• Guidance on safe use of lice treatment products.
• Advice on home care and prevention measures.
• Follow-up consultations to assess treatment progress.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Physical removal of lice or nits requiring hands-on care.
• Treatment of scalp infections or complications.
• Assessment of severe symptoms needing urgent care.
• Prescribing medications that require in-person evaluation.

What to Expect After Your Telemedicine Visit

After your telemedicine visit, the healthcare provider will explain the diagnosis and recommend treatments. This often includes using special lice-killing shampoos or lotions. They will guide you on how to apply these treatments safely and how often to repeat them. You may also receive advice on removing lice and nits with a fine-toothed comb.

How to Care for Your Child at Home

Treating lice involves more than just medication. You will need to comb your child's hair carefully to remove lice and nits. Wash bedding, hats, and clothing in hot water and dry on high heat. Items that cannot be washed can be sealed in plastic bags for two weeks. Avoid sharing combs, hats, or pillows to prevent spreading lice.

When to Schedule Follow-Up Care

Your healthcare provider may suggest a follow-up telemedicine visit or an in-person check to ensure the lice are gone. If lice or itching persist after treatment, or if new symptoms develop, contact your healthcare provider for further advice.

Recognizing Warning Signs That Need In-Person Care

If your child develops redness, swelling, pain, or pus on the scalp, or if itching worsens significantly, these may be signs of infection. Fever or swollen lymph nodes are also concerning. In these cases, seek in-person medical evaluation promptly.

Preventing Future Lice Infestations

Teach your child not to share personal items like hats or brushes. Regularly check your child's hair, especially after close contact with others who have lice. Early detection helps prevent spreading lice to others.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Have good lighting and a quiet space for the telemedicine visit.
• Prepare to show your child's scalp and hair clearly via camera or photos.
• List any symptoms your child is experiencing, including itching and scalp changes.
• Gather any previous treatment products used, if applicable.
• Have questions ready about treatment options and home care.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the treatment instructions provided by the healthcare provider carefully.
• Use a fine-toothed comb to remove lice and nits after treatment.
• Wash bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water and dry on high heat.
• Avoid sharing personal items to prevent spreading lice.
• Monitor your child for any signs of infection or worsening symptoms.
• Schedule follow-up care if advised or if symptoms persist.

FAQs

Can lice be treated without medication?

Yes, lice can sometimes be managed by carefully combing wet hair with a fine-toothed nit comb to remove lice and eggs. However, medicated treatments are often recommended to kill lice effectively.

Is it safe to use over-the-counter lice treatments on young children?

Many over-the-counter lice treatments are safe for children over 2 years old, but it's important to follow the product instructions carefully. Consult your healthcare provider before using any treatment, especially for very young children.

How long does it take to get rid of lice?

Treatment usually takes one to two weeks. You may need to repeat treatment after 7 to 10 days to kill newly hatched lice. Removing nits with a comb helps speed up recovery.

Can my child go to school or daycare with lice?

Policies vary, but many places allow children to attend school once treatment has started. Check with your child's school or daycare for their guidelines.

Will my child get lice again after treatment?

It's possible to get lice again if exposed to someone with lice. Preventive measures like avoiding sharing personal items and regular hair checks help reduce this risk.

Sources

1. Head Lice — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
2. Pediculosis (Lice) — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
3. Head Lice Treatment — Mayo Clinic.
4. Lice and Scabies — 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's symptoms worsen or you have concerns, seek direct evaluation from a healthcare professional.