Lice supplies?

[EB12]

I am a new school nurse, just started in January, I have alot to learn! I have a ton of questions however, one in particular about lice.

I have had quite a few students with lice and parents have asked me if I have lice combs or supplies.

And conversation approaches for families, or upset parents finding out their child has or STILL has lice, despite reported treatment at home.

Is there anywhere that will send free combs or supplies to hand out to families in need?

Thank you!

[OldDude]

Regardless of the claims...head lice are present in every elementary school in US/world. Some parents are concerned - some are not. Those that are concerned will educate themselves and obtain what is necessary to treat their child. Those that are not concerned won't have their attitude changed by you finding them free lice treatment and combs. Since lice don't pose a health hazard and don't spread any kind of disease, spend your time and energy, especially as a new school nurse, on stuff that is important.

[cynmrn]

We do have a small budget for purchasing lice treatment products for families that cannot afford it and request it, but we try not to advertise, because it does get expensive, and it is the parents' responsibility to treat this issue, and it's really not the emergent issue that many make it out to be.

As far as parents who are upset over continuing issues with lice, all we can do is provide education and you can always suggest they see their physician and obtain a prescription lice treatment product, as there is the possibility of resistance.

[Flare, ASN, BSN]

i have people from all financial levels that end up getting lice. I think in going on 13 ish years of school nursing i've only had one family tell me they couldn't afford to treat. The rest of the times, the boxes have been inherited by me from a former nurse and have sat there until they've expired and i've chucked them or i've taken over an office and found boxes of lice treatment that were older than me. Some companies send coupons each year -those seem to be appreciated more and i feel like i get enough of those to give those to everyone - not just someone who might not be able to afford treatment. Because everyone likes to save $2/box

[Spidey's mom, ADN, BSN, RN]

I don't keep any supplies either.

At the beginning of school I send out a newsletter (suggested by another nurse here) that talks about lice and the facts! Not the myths.

I don't do head checks either.

Like OldDude said, lice are not a health hazard. We have to re-educate folks every year about the silly fear factor involved.