A 7-year-old child is diagnosed with head lice.In addition to applying a pediculicide, which instruction should the nurse provide to the parents?

Choice A rationaleWashing bedding and recently worn clothing in hot water (above 54°C or 130°F) helps to kill lice and their nits (eggs) that may be present on these items, preventing re-infestation or spread to others. The heat denatures the proteins essential for the lice's survival.Choice B rationaleSealing non-washable items in a plastic bag for 2 weeks suffocates any lice and allows any hatched nymphs to die due to lack of a blood meal. Lice cannot survive for extended periods away from a human host.Choice C rationaleBoth washing bedding and clothing in hot water and sealing non-washable items are crucial steps in eliminating head lice and preventing recurrence or transmission. Therefore, all of the above instructions should be provided to parents.Choice D rationaleNotifying the school allows for screening of other children and implementation of appropriate measures to prevent further spread of the head lice within the school environment. While important for public health, it is an action separate from the direct treatment and environmental control measures that parents should undertake at home.