Las Vegas Sun

March 28, 2024

2 Las Vegas respiratory therapists disciplined for drug use

CARSON CITY – Two respiratory therapists from Las Vegas have been disciplined by the state Board of Medical Examiners for use of drugs.

The board revoked the license of Marilyn Atkins, who was given a prior chance to stay away from drugs. She initially tested positive for narcotics and was placed on 48 months of probation, and also ordered to take a drug rehabilitation course by the board in September 2010.

She was also ordered to undergo random drug testing. Atkins, according to a complaint filed by board General Counsel Lyn Beggs, never completed the drug rehabilitation sessions.

In January, hair and urine tests revealed she had been using methamphetamine, codeine and hydrocodone. The board at its Friday meeting revoked the license of Atkins, who did not appear at the session.

The board also suspended the license of Anthony Cruz, who was found to be under the influence of methamphetamine while working at Summerlin Hospital. The complaint against Cruz said he exhibited “signs of impairment” while providing respiratory care to a patient.

The board suspended his license in August last year. It also said Cruz failed to disclose arrests for a 1994 domestic battery and for a misdemeanor DUI when he applied for his license and sought renewal.

In a settlement approved by the board, the suspension of the license of Cruz was lifted, he was ordered to make a public apology, get drug rehabilitation treatment and submit to random hair and urine sampling.

He was also ordered to reimburse the board $2,395 spent in the investigation and prosecution of the case.

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