What nursing action is appropriate when treating a hospitalized child with pediculosis?

Choice A rationalePediculosis, an infestation of lice, is highly contagious through direct contact, especially head-to-head contact. Therefore, no precautions are insufficient to prevent the spread of lice to healthcare workers and other patients. Standard precautions are necessary.Choice B rationaleWearing a gown and hair cover is not typically required for routine care of a child with pediculosis. Standard precautions, including gloves to prevent direct contact with the child's hair and scalp, are generally sufficient. Gowns are usually indicated when there is a risk of contact with body fluids or secretions.Choice C rationaleIsolating the child in a negative-pressure room is reserved for airborne infections, such as tuberculosis or measles. Pediculosis is transmitted through direct contact, not airborne droplets, so isolation in a negative-pressure room is unnecessary and inappropriate.Choice D rationaleWearing gloves is the appropriate nursing action when treating a hospitalized child with pediculosis. Gloves prevent direct contact with the lice and their eggs (nits) during examination and treatment of the scalp and hair, thus minimizing the risk of transmission to the healthcare worker. .