Ascariasis

It is an infection caused by a parasitic roundworm, Ascaris lumbricoides.

Mode of Transmission:
Transmitted through contaminated fingers put into the mouth.
Ingestion of contaminated food and drinks.

Diagnostic tests

• Stool for Ova – demonstration of a fertilized or unfertilized eggs in the stool “Kato Technics”.
• Abdominal X-ray – densed shadow of adult ascaris which looks like strands of spaghetti, “dot” sign
• Routine blood counts – significant eosinophelia

Treatment

• Albendazole or Mebendazole
• Piperazine Citrate
• Pyrantel Pamoate

Nursing Interventions

1. Isolation is not needed.
2. Preventive measures in each home and in the community should be enforced.
3. All members of the family must be taught of health matters – must be trained to wash their hands before handling food, must be taught to was thoroughly all fruits and vegetables eaten raw, and must be taught about effective sewage disposal.
4. Availability of toilet facilities must be ensured.
5. Importance of personal hygiene should be explained.