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Certified First Assistant Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

CT Assist

CVOR PA, locums

Falls Church, VA · On-site

$115 - $135/hr

* CVOR Physician Assistant * 5+ years EVH and first assist experience * 4 10-12 hour days * OR Only ... Certified by The Joint Commission CT Assist is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will ...

VHC Health

L&D OR First Assistant

Arlington, VA · On-site

$45.18 - $73.17/hr

Position Title L&D OR First Assistant Purpose & Scope: The Surgical Assistant renders direct ... Certification/Licensure: Licensed Surgical Assistant by the Virginia Department of Health ...

VHC Health

L&D OR First Assistant

Arlington, VA

$17.25 - $21.50/hr

Position TitleL&D OR First Assistant Purpose & Scope: The Surgical Assistant renders direct patient ... Certification/Licensure: Licensed Surgical Assistant by the Virginia Department of Health ...

CT Assist

CVOR NP, locums

Falls Church, VA · On-site

$115 - $135/hr

* CVOR Nurse Practitioner * 5+ years EVH and first assist experience * 4 10-12 hour days * OR Only ... Certified by The Joint Commission CT Assist is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will ...

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All JobsCertified First JobsCertified First Assistant JobsCertified First Assistant Jobs in Washington

Certified First Assistant information

What is a certified first assistant?

As a certified first assistant (CFA), also called a certified surgical first assistant (CSFA), your primary responsibilities are assisting the surgeon and nurses in preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative procedures. Your job duties include prepping patients, dressing wounds, monitoring electronic medical equipment, performing minor surgical procedures, and providing care to patients before, during, and after procedures. You need experience as a surgical technician in addition to great communication skills, strong attention to detail, and the ability to perform in high-pressure situations. You can find CSFA jobs in hospitals, private practices, outpatient surgery centers, and other health care settings with a surgical team.

What is a certified first assistant?

A Certified First Assistant (CFA), also known as a Surgical First Assistant, is a highly trained healthcare professional who assists surgeons during surgical procedures. They play a vital role in ensuring surgeries run smoothly by providing direct support, such as controlling bleeding, suturing incisions, and helping maintain a sterile environment. CFAs work closely with surgeons, nurses, and other operating room staff to enhance patient outcomes and safety. Certification typically requires specialized education, hands-on experience, and passing a national examination.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a certified first assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Certified First Assistant, you need a solid background in surgical procedures, anatomy, and sterile techniques, usually supported by certification such as the Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) or equivalent. Competence with surgical instruments, patient monitoring systems, and electronic health records is typically required. Strong communication, attention to detail, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are standout soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure patient safety, effective teamwork, and optimal surgical outcomes.

What are some common challenges faced by certified first assistants during surgical procedures?

Certified First Assistants often encounter challenges such as adapting to rapidly changing surgical situations, maintaining clear communication with the surgical team, and anticipating the needs of the surgeon. They must remain highly focused for extended periods and be prepared to respond quickly to unexpected complications. Collaboration, technical proficiency, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are essential for success in this role.

What is the difference between Certified First Assistant vs Surgical Technologist?

AspectCertified First AssistantSurgical Technologist
CredentialsCertified First Assistant (CFA) certification, often requires RN or physician assistant licensureCertified Surgical Technologist (CST) certification, usually requires completing a surgical tech program
Work EnvironmentAssist surgeons directly during surgeries, mainly in hospitals and surgical centersPrepare operating rooms, sterilize instruments, and assist during surgeries
Employer & Industry UsageHospitals, surgical clinics, outpatient surgery centersHospitals, outpatient surgical centers, clinics

The Certified First Assistant works closely with surgeons during procedures, providing direct assistance, while Surgical Technologists prepare the operating room and support the surgical team. Both roles are vital in surgical settings but differ in responsibilities and required credentials.

How long does it take to become a certified first assistant?

Becoming a certified first assistant typically requires completing a specialized training program that lasts several months, followed by gaining hands-on experience in surgical assisting. Certification through organizations like the Association of periOperative Registered Nurses (AORN) or the National Surgical Assistant Association (NSAA) often involves passing an exam after training and experience requirements are met.
More about Certified First Assistant jobs

What cities in Washington are hiring for Certified First Assistant jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Certified First Assistant job openings:

Certified First Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Certified First Assistant job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Registered Nurse First Assistant - McLean ASC

Inova McLean Surgery Center

Mclean, VA • On-site

$38.36 - $70.78/hr

Other

Retirement

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description


The Registered Nurse First Assistant (RNFA) is a key member of the surgical team, collaborating with surgeons and healthcare staff to provide safe, efficient, and high-quality patient care. The role involves assisting the surgeon during operative procedures, ensuring optimal patient outcomes while maintaining compliance with regulatory and safety standards in a fast-paced outpatient environment. Ability to work in a fast-paced ASC setting with an emphasis on patient safety and efficiency. Requires physical stamina for standing, bending, and assisting during procedures. The RNFA will assume circulating or scrub role duties when there are no procedures requiring first assistance, including other duties as assigned.

Duties & Responsibilities:

Intraoperative Support

  • Assist the surgeon during operative procedures, including retracting tissues, providing exposure, suturing, and maintaining hemostasis
  • Anticipate surgeon needs and ensure appropriate instruments, supplies, and equipment are available and functional
  • Assists in the preparation of the procedure room for patient care, including room turnover, opening and organizing supplies, and maintaining a ready clinical environment
  • Collaborate with the surgical team to maintain a sterile field and adhere to infection control standards
  • Responsible for administering medications under the direction of the surgeon


Preoperative and Postoperative Duties

  • Assist in patient positioning and preparation for surgery, ensuring safety and comfort
  • Participate in surgical site preparation and draping
  • Provide postoperative care support, including wound care and patient transfer, as needed


Collaboration and Communication

  • Work closely with surgeons, OR nurses, and other team members to ensure seamless surgical procedures
  • Communicate effectively to address procedural needs and resolve issues promptly


Education and Professional Development

  • Stay current with best practices, techniques, and equipment through continuing education
  • Maintain documentation of cases and hours for certification and regulatory compliance


Safety and Compliance

  • Adhere to all ASC policies, procedures, and AAAHC accreditation standards
  • Monitor and maintain patient safety throughout all phases of the surgical process
  • Must meet and consistently maintain all required credentialing standards

Qualifications:

  • Minimum of two years of experience as an RNFA, preferably in an ASC or outpatient environment
  • Current Registered Nurse licensure or eligibility for licensure in the Commonwealth of Virginia, or an active multi-state Registered Nurse license
  • Completion of an RNFA program that meets AORN standards for Registered Nurse First Assistant education, through an accredited organization
  • Certified Nurse Operating Room (CNOR) is highly desired
  • Current Basic Life Support (BLS)
  • Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certification, as required by individual ASC standards
  • Knowledge of surgical procedures across multiple specialties, including orthopedics, general surgery, ENT, and more
  • Proficiency in aseptic techniques and surgical instrumentation
  • Strong organizational, communication, and teamwork skills

Benefits:

  • 401k Retirement Program with company match