Clinical Presentations of Children Exposed to Fentanyl in Their Lived Environments

INTRODUCTION. Fentanyl exposure is affecting children and adults alike.1-4 Children residing in homes where illicit fentanyl is used are considered drug endangered children.5 These children are at risk of physical abuse, mental health issues, and long-term health consequences.6-8 There is currently no literature describing the clinical presentations and urine drug testing of children who are found in homes where illicit fentanyl is used but have no symptoms of opioid intoxication. This population may be overlooked, yet they are still at risk for a multitude of adverse developmental and physical consequences. Studying the prevalence of children who are positive for illicit fentanyl due to their lived environment may help us understand the vulnerability of this population and create standards of care to better diagnose and treat them.