General Nursing©

SCABIES (Skin Problem)

Complications:

• Secondary bacterial infection.
• Eczema.

Causes:

• Skin infestation by the scabies mite (a tiny parasite called Sarcoptes scabiei). Scabies is usually spread by skin-to-skin contact with an infested person.

What you can do:

• Consult a doctor if you suspect scabies.
• Apply anti-scabies lotion from below the neck to the soles of the feet; avoid getting it into your eyes. Leave the lotion for 24 hours, and then wash off thoroughly. Repeat the treatment for two more days.
• Wash an infested person's clothes, bed linen, and towels thoroughly in hot water.

Prevention Tips:

• Avoid direct contact with any person who has scabies. Do not use an infected persons clothes, bed linen, or towels. If you come in direct contact with the infested person, apply anti-scabies lotion even if you do not have the symptoms.

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