Clark County nurse suspended after being charged with rape

A Clark County nurse’s license has been immediately suspended based on charges he had sexual contact with a child.

The Nursing Care Quality Assurance Commission suspended the credentials of Zachariah Allard Merritt, 31, on March 27. The commission’s action was based on allegations Merritt had sexual contact with a girl while she was napping.

The alleged incident took place in Brush Prairie on Sept. 3. The following day, Merritt allegedly attempted to kill himself, according to the commission’s statement of charges.

Merritt was charged in Clark County Superior Court with two felony sex crimes, including third-degree rape. His trial is scheduled for May 28.

Merritt cannot practice in Washington until the charges are resolved. He has 20 days to respond to the commission action against his licenses and to ask for a hearing.

In addition to a registered nurse license, Merritt holds emergency medical technician and nursing assistant certified licenses. Those credentials were also immediately suspended.