Arlington Heights student had fentanyl in blood after visiting school nurse, family says
ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, Ill. — The parents of a Westgate Elementary School student say they’ve consulted their attorney after blood work on their child showed signs of fentanyl following a visit to the school nurse.
The family, who has chosen to remain anonymous to protect their privacy, say the child has suffered health problems because of the alleged misuse and believe other students in the school may be at risk.
“We are highly concerned for the health of our child and will not rest until we understand exactly what happened and see that the appropriate people are held accountable,” the family said in a statement.
A registered nurse at the school has been placed on administrative leave amid allegations they swapped students’ medicine. Families of students who receive medications at school were asked to visit the school to verify the contents and quantity of their medicine in the nurse’s office.
Read: Arlington Heights District 25 letter to parents
The investigation continued Friday. While no charges have yet been filed, the law team at Romanucci and Blandin has started a civil investigation into the matter.
“We are talking about innocent elementary school children who have medical needs that their physicians and parents are managing with prescription medication. For those children not to receive the exact medication or dosage they need can have tragic health consequences,” spokeswoman Gina DeBoni told WGN.
In a letter to parents, district officials said they were working closely with police and have reported the incident to Illinois Department of Children and Family Services.
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“Like you, we are deeply disappointed to learn of this potential breach of trust. The safety and well-being of our students, staff and school community is a top priority,” a statement from the district said.
Parents with concerns that their children are involved in the alleged misuse of medicine are encouraged to call police. Lawyers also recommended seeing a doctor.
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