For Sarcoptes scabiei (scabies), Contact Precautions should remain in place until 24 hours after effective treatment has been completed. The first-line treatment is 5% permethrin cream, which is applied to the entire body and left on for 8-14 hours before being washed off.
Why the Other Options Are Incorrect?
* A. When the treatment cream is applied - The mite is still present and infectious until treatment has fully taken effect.
* B. When the bed linen is changed - While changing linens is necessary, it does not indicate that the infestation has cleared.
* D. 24 hours after the second treatment - Most cases require only one treatment with permethrin, though severe cases may need a second dose after a week.
CBIC Infection Control Reference
According to APIC guidelines, Contact Precautions can be discontinued 24 hours after effective treatment has been administered.