New residents or those accepted in transfer from another care facility should be examined on the first day of arrival. If a resident is undergoing treatment for scabies but requires transfer to another care facility, the accepting facility must be notified of the current diagnosis of scabies in this resident prior to transfer. Residents of LTCF are at risk for hyperinfestation with the scabies mite. Crusted scabies, known as Norwegian scabies, is extremely contagious. If even a single resident has crusted scabies, the LTCF faces a significant risk of a scabies outbreak.
Lesions resemble psoriasis with heavy crusting and scaling.
Fingernails and toenails often appear discolored and thickened. A magnifying glass may be used to locate burrows. When a possible burrow is detected, mark with a wide felt tip pen. Apply an alcohol pad to remove the surface ink. If a burrow is present, the ink will remain within the burrow.