The mother of a 12-year-old child reports that her daughter frequently scratches her scalp and the hair "is clumpy and smells really bad." What should the nurse do to assist this mother?
1. Suggest that the daughter be checked for head lice.
2. Suggest that the daughter have a blood glucose level drawn.
3. Suggest that the daughter wash her hair.
4. Suggest that the daughter have a haircut.
Correct Answer: 1
Pediculosis capitis is an infestation with head lice. It is more common in female children. Manifestations of head lice include pruritis, scratching, and erythema of the scalp. If untreated, the hair appears matted and crusted with a foul-smelling substance. There are no indications from the information provided that the child has diabetes. Although hygiene may be an issue, the greatest indicator points toward the presence of head lice. There is no need to encourage a haircut at this time.
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