CH200-Head Lice and Nits Prevention and Management Policy
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Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}
Head Lice and Nits Prevention and Management Policy
1. Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to outline how {{org_field_name}} manages the prevention, identification, and treatment of head lice and nits in individuals we support in the home care setting. Although not classified as a serious health risk, head lice can cause discomfort, social stigma, and distress. Timely and respectful management helps maintain personal dignity, supports infection control standards, and promotes well-being in line with CQC Regulation 12 (Safe Care and Treatment), Regulation 10 (Dignity and Respect), and Regulation 13 (Safeguarding).
2. Scope
This policy applies to all care staff, including permanent, part-time, agency, and volunteers who provide personal care, grooming, or close-contact support to individuals in their own homes. It also applies to individuals receiving care, their family members involved in care decisions, and any staff entering their home environment.
3. Related Policies
- CH08 – Dignity and Respect Policy
- CH11 – Safe Care and Treatment Policy
- CH13 – Safeguarding Adults from Abuse and Improper Treatment Policy
- CH17 – Infection Prevention and Control Policy
- CH40 – Assisting with Personal Care Policy
4. Policy Statement and Principles
4.1 Understanding Head Lice and Nits
Head lice are small, wingless insects that live on the human scalp and feed on blood. Nits are the eggs laid by lice. While not dangerous, they spread through direct head-to-head contact and can cause itching and irritation. Head lice are not a sign of poor hygiene and can affect anyone. Our policy is based on education, sensitivity, and prompt action to minimise spread.
4.2 Identification and Observations
Care staff are not responsible for formal diagnosis but are trained to observe signs that may suggest head lice infestation such as: persistent scratching of the scalp, visible lice or eggs (nits) in hair close to the scalp, or reports of itching. If signs are noticed, staff must sensitively report the observation to the Registered Manager {{org_field_registered_manager_first_name}} {{org_field_registered_manager_last_name}} and document it in the care notes. Staff must not directly examine hair unless it is part of agreed personal care and with consent.
4.3 Communication and Consent
If infestation is suspected, the matter will be raised discreetly with the individual and/or their family/advocate, maintaining dignity and avoiding alarm. Staff must explain that lice are common, not caused by poor hygiene, and that treatment is straightforward. No action or treatment should be undertaken without the individual’s consent or a best interest decision if the person lacks capacity, in line with the Mental Capacity Act 2005.
4.4 Treatment and Support
Treatment of head lice is the responsibility of the individual, their family, or primary care professionals. However, {{org_field_name}} will support individuals in the following ways:
- Providing information leaflets or resources
- Assisting with arranging appointments with healthcare professionals if needed
- Supporting individuals to purchase over-the-counter treatments if agreed
- Assisting with application of treatment products where agreed in the care plan and with consent
- Supporting with regular hair washing and combing as part of personal care routines
Care plans must reflect any ongoing support required, and staff must follow instructions on any treatment products precisely to ensure safety and efficacy.
4.5 Infection Control and Prevention
To reduce the risk of lice transmission between individuals or staff:
- Staff must avoid head-to-head contact and not share hairbrushes, combs, or hats
- Towels and pillowcases used by affected individuals must be washed at a high temperature
- Hairdressing equipment used in care must be cleaned after each use
- PPE should be used where contact with the scalp is likely, and hands washed before and after care
- Affected individuals should be encouraged to treat lice before interacting closely with others
We ensure all infection prevention and control procedures are followed in line with CH17 – Infection Prevention and Control Policy.
4.6 Staff Affected by Head Lice
If a staff member suspects they have head lice, they are encouraged to inform their line manager confidentially and seek treatment immediately. This is not a disciplinary matter and does not require time off work if treatment is being undertaken and effective precautions are followed. Staff must not provide direct personal care until they have initiated treatment.
4.7 Record Keeping and Confidentiality
All observations, concerns, support actions, and communications regarding head lice must be recorded factually and sensitively in the individual’s care notes. Confidentiality must be upheld at all times in accordance with CH34 – Confidentiality and Data Protection Policy. Staff must avoid discussing an individual’s condition with anyone not involved in their care.
4.8 Training and Awareness
All care staff receive training on recognising symptoms of head lice, how to respond appropriately, and the use of protective measures during personal care. Training emphasises maintaining dignity, avoiding stigma, and following infection control practices. Refresher training is provided annually or when updates to best practice are made.
4.9 Safeguarding Considerations
Persistent or untreated head lice may be an indicator of neglect, especially in individuals who are dependent on others for personal care. In such cases, staff must follow the CH13 – Safeguarding Policy and raise a safeguarding concern with {{org_field_safeguarding_lead_name}}, the Safeguarding Lead.
5. Policy Review
This policy is reviewed annually or earlier if there are updates in CQC regulations, public health guidance, or internal incident reviews. Staff are notified of any changes and updated documents are available from {{org_field_email}} and on {{org_field_website}}.
Responsible Person: {{org_field_registered_manager_first_name}} {{org_field_registered_manager_last_name}}
Reviewed on: {{last_update_date}}
Next Review Date: {{next_review_date}}
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