A nurse is caring for a 6-month-old infant who is postoperative following a myringotomy. Which of the following pain scales should the nurse use to determine the infant's pain level?

Choice A: Lice cannot survive for more than 48 hours away from the host. This statement is false and should not be included in the teaching, as it can cause unnecessary anxiety or confusion.

Choice B: Washing your child's hair daily will not prevent lice, as lice do not depend on hair cleanliness or hygiene.
This statement is false and should not be included in the teaching, as it can create a false sense of security or stigma.

Choice C: Lice cannot jump or fly from one child to another, as they only crawl. This statement is false and should not be included in the teaching, as it can cause unnecessary fear or panic.

Choice D: Encouraging your child to avoid sharing hats with other children can prevent lice, as lice can be transmitted by direct contact or by sharing personal items. This statement is true and should be included in the teaching, as it can help prevent lice infestation or spread.

Choice A: This statement indicates an understanding of the teaching, as washing all recently used clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water can help eliminate lice and nits (eggs). Lice and nits can survive on fabrics for up to two days and can spread from one person to another through direct or indirect contact. Washing items in hot water can kill lice and nits by exposing them to high temperatures.

Choice B: This statement indicates a lack of understanding of the teaching, as nits will not always be present after treatment. Nits are tiny white or yellow oval-shaped eggs that are attached to the hair shaft near the scalp. Nits can hatch into nymphs (young lice) within seven to ten days and mature into adult lice within nine to twelve days. Nits can be removed by using a fine-toothed comb or by applying products that loosen their grip on the hair.

Choice C: This statement indicates a lack of understanding of the teaching, as treating all family members may not be necessary or effective. Treating all family members can expose them to unnecessary chemicals or medications that may have side effects or cause resistance. Treating all family members may also not prevent reinfestation if there are other sources of exposure such as school or daycare. Only family members who have evidence of lice or nits should be treated.

Choice D: This statement indicates a lack of understanding of the teaching, as throwing out toys that can't be dry cleaned or washed may not be required or practical. Throwing out toys can cause emotional distress or financial burden for the child or the parents. Throwing out toys may also not prevent reinfestation if there are other sources of exposure such as clothing or bedding. Toys that can't be dry cleaned or washed can be sealed in plastic bags for two weeks to suffocate the lice and nits.