RN, Certified First Assistant
The RNFA (Registered Nurse First Assist) is a professional caregiver who assumes responsibility for providing patient focused health care. The first assistant provides aid in exposure, hemostasis, and other technical functions, which will help the surgeon carry out a safe operation with optimal results for the patient. This role will vary considerably with the surgical operation and the specialty area. The RNFA nurse will utilize the nursing process, communication skills, and problem solving techniques to deliver quality care. The RNFA will also be responsible for the knowledge and technical skills needed to operate a variety of mechanical devices to accomplish this task.
Directs the care of the patient through the nursing process and through collaboration with the patient, their family and other health care professionals. Provides leadership to non-licensed staff by setting an example of excellence.
When not acting as RNFA, the caregiver will function as an RN in the surgery department, therefore this job description is inclusive of the information contained in the Registered Nurse Surgical Services job description.
The successful candidate:- Serve as a Surgical First Assist, applying knowledge of surgical anatomy, physiology, and operative techniques during procedures.
- Assist with patient positioning, preparation, and sterile draping.
- Provide surgical support including wound exposure, tissue handling, retraction, suctioning, sponging, and hemostasis.
- Perform suturing, wound closure, dressing application, drain management, and assist with postoperative local anesthetic administration as directed.
- Assess patient health status and develop, implement, and evaluate individualized nursing care plans.
- Monitor and maintain a safe, efficient surgical environment to support optimal patient outcomes.
- Educate patients and families regarding treatment plans, disease processes, and health promotion.
- Coordinate supplies, equipment, and multidisciplinary team activities to ensure efficient intraoperative workflow.
- Communicate patient status changes and collaborate with physicians and care teams to adjust treatment plans as needed.
- Administer medications and treatments safely, document care provided, and ensure compliance with regulatory and organizational standards.
- Promote teamwork, professional collaboration, and continuous performance improvement initiatives.
- Deliver compassionate, patient-centered care aligned with City of Hope's mission, values, and service standards.
Qualifications
Your qualifications should include:
- Education: BSN required or enrollment in a BSN program within 6 months of hire; BSN must be completed within 3 years of hire.
- Licensure: Current Georgia Registered Nurse License or a Registered Nurse License from a Compact State.
- Minimum 3 years of diversified Operating Room (OR) experience.
- Proficient in perioperative nursing practice as both a Scrub Nurse and Circulating Nurse.
- Completion of an accredited Registered Nurse First Assistant (RNFA) program required.
- CNOR certification preferred.
- Current BLS and ACLS certification required (AHA certifications must be obtained within 30 days of hire).
