American Board of Family Medicine (ABFM) Practice Exam

Can a child with head lice attend school if they are receiving treatment with permethrin shampoo?

1. No, they must stay home until fully clear

2. Yes, as long as home remedies are continued

3. Yes, but only if they wear a hat

4. No, they cannot return until nits are removed

The correct answer is: Yes, as long as home remedies are continued

The guidance regarding head lice management emphasizes that children can return to school after they have started treatment, such as with permethrin shampoo. While it’s important to continue monitoring the child and possibly applying additional treatments, the key factor is that they are undergoing an effective treatment protocol. Many school policies do not require that all nits (eggs) be removed before a child is allowed back, as the primary concern is to prevent the spread of head lice, and treatment effectively reduces that risk. Home remedies may support the treatment, but they are not mandatory for school attendance as long as a recognized treatment is being used. This understanding aligns with the approach that prioritizes the wellbeing of the child while also addressing public health concerns regarding the spread of lice in school environments. In contrast, the other choices suggest stricter conditions for school attendance, which may not be consistent with public health guidelines or current common practices regarding head lice.