The state Department of Health immediately suspended the credential of registered nursing assistant Benson M. Mbichire on charges that he neglected or abandoned a mentally ill patient who cannot speak.

Police found one of Mbichire’s patients walking disoriented in a neighboring yard while Mbichire was asleep on duty. The statement of charges says Mbichire was under the influence of alcohol at the time while working at a home where he was responsible for three adult patients. Mbichire was criminally charged with abandoning a dependent person.

Mbichire has 20 days to request a hearing to contest these charges. He cannot practice in Washington until the charges are resolved.

The documents can be seen online by clicking “Look up a health care provider” on the Department of Health website; copies can be requested by calling 360-236-4700. That’s also the number to call to file complaints against health care providers in Washington.

The Nursing Assistant Program regulates certified nursing assistants and registered nursing assistants in Washington. The program establishes, monitors, and enforces qualifications for licensing, consistent standards of practice, continuing competency mechanisms and discipline. Rules, policies and procedures promote the delivery of quality health care to state residents.