Background
Head lice are a main public health problem and the most important human ectoparasites and the use of pediculicides is the most common way to control it. One of the possible causes of treatment failure is the lack of improper application of pediculicide. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of education on efficacy of 1% permethrin or 4% dimeticone lotion to treat head lice infestation.
Methods
This quasi-experimental study was performed on 100 people infected with head lice in comprehensive urban health centers of Ardabil (intervention group) and 400 people of East Azerbaijan and West Azerbaijan (control group) provinces from April to March 2019. The data collection tool included demographic questionnaire and examination evidence recording sheet in terms of presence of hits or adult lice.
Results
The outcome of treatment included elimination of head lice infestation on days 7, and in the case of recurrence, it was considered on days 14 and 30 after treatment. Data were analyzed using R software and Generalized Estimating Equation method. GEE analysis showed there is significant difference in evaluating head lice over time.
Conclusion
Participants who received the training intervention (OR = 3.29; CI 95%: 2.21–4.88) were more likely to have a successful treatment than control group. In the case of providing proper training on the use of pediculicides and observing hygiene tips to patients with pediculosis, could help to successful treatment of pediculosis.