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First Assist Nurse Jobs (NOW HIRING)

First Assist and Vein Harvesting Skills Required * Place and remove chest tubes, arterial lines ... PA, NP, cardiothoracic, cardiovascular, cardiac, endoscopic vein harvest, EVH, CVOR, CABG ...

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First Assist Nurse information

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$17

$38

$65

How much do first assist nurse jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for first assist nurse in the United States is $38.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.57 and $43.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a First Assist Nurse, and why are they important?

To thrive as a First Assist Nurse, you need advanced clinical skills in perioperative nursing, surgical procedures, and wound management, typically requiring RN licensure, perioperative certification, and completion of a First Assistant training program. Familiarity with surgical instruments, sterile techniques, and electronic medical records is essential. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate effectively under pressure help you excel in the surgical environment. These competencies are crucial for ensuring patient safety, supporting surgeons efficiently, and achieving optimal surgical outcomes.

What are some common challenges First Assist Nurses face during surgical procedures?

First Assist Nurses often encounter challenges such as adapting quickly to changing surgical situations, maintaining sterile technique under pressure, and effectively communicating with surgeons and the operating room team. They must anticipate the surgeon’s needs and respond promptly to any complications that arise. Staying current with evolving surgical techniques and protocols is essential to ensure patient safety and positive outcomes.

What is the difference between First Assist Nurse vs Surgical Nurse?

AspectFirst Assist NurseSurgical Nurse
CredentialsRN license, surgical assisting certificationRN license, perioperative certification
Work EnvironmentOperating room, assisting surgeons during proceduresOperating room, preparing and supporting surgical procedures
Employer & IndustryHospitals, surgical centers, clinicsHospitals, outpatient surgical facilities
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

First Assist Nurses and Surgical Nurses both work in surgical settings, often in hospitals or outpatient centers. While First Assist Nurses focus on directly assisting surgeons during procedures, Surgical Nurses prepare the operating room and support patient care before, during, and after surgery. Both roles require RN licensure, but First Assist Nurses typically need additional surgical assisting certification. Understanding these differences helps healthcare facilities and professionals choose the right role for their needs.

What is a First Assist Nurse?

A First Assist Nurse, also known as a Registered Nurse First Assistant (RNFA), is a perioperative nurse who works alongside surgeons during surgical procedures. Their primary responsibilities include assisting with surgical instruments, controlling bleeding, handling tissues, and suturing incisions as directed by the surgeon. First Assist Nurses play a crucial role in ensuring patient safety and positive surgical outcomes by providing skilled support throughout the operation. They typically require advanced training and certification beyond basic registered nursing education.
More about First Assist Nurse jobs
What cities are hiring for First Assist Nurse jobs? Cities with the most First Assist Nurse job openings:
What states have the most First Assist Nurse jobs? States with the most job openings for First Assist Nurse jobs include:
Infographic showing various First Assist Nurse job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,321 per year, or $38.6 per hour.
Travel RN First Assist - $3,459 per week

Travel RN First Assist - $3,459 per week

Assured Nursing Inc

Northampton, MA

$3K/wk

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

Assured Nursing is seeking a travel nurse RN First Assist for a travel nursing job in Northampton, Massachusetts.

Job Description & Requirements
  • Specialty: First Assist
  • Discipline: RN
  • Start Date: 06/29/2026
  • Duration: 13 weeks
  • 40 hours per week
  • Shift: 10 hours, days
  • Employment Type: Travel

Looking for a great Travel First Assist Nursing Job in Northampton, Massachusetts? Assured Nursing posted this Travel Nursing Job that offers 40 hours a week for 13 weeks in Northampton, Massachusetts.

Vivian Health provides transparent Travel First Assist Salary information and unbiased reviews from leading Travel Nurse Agencies across the United States, so you can compare travel opportunities matching your desired criteria.

With Vivian, you can chat directly with recruiters and apply to staffing agencies with a Single Reusable Profile to find your ideal job faster and easier than ever.

The details for this Travel First Assist Nursing Job are:

  • Specialty: First Assist
  • Job Location: Northampton, Massachusetts
  • Travel Nurse Salary: $3,459/week
  • Start Date: 06/29/2026
  • Assignment Length: 13 weeks
  • Total Hours Per Week: 40 weekly
  • Shift Breakdown: 4x10 hrs
  • Shift: 10 hours, days

Assured Nursing Job ID #36692316. Pay package is based on 10 hour shifts and 40.0 hours per week (subject to confirmation) with tax-free stipend amount to be determined. Posted job title: RN:RNFA,07:00:00-17:00:00

Benefits
  • Weekly pay
  • Holiday Pay
  • 401k retirement plan
  • Referral bonus
  • Medical benefits
  • Dental benefits
  • Vision benefits

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About Assured Nursing

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Living Life to the Fullest Begins Right Now with You. A unique end-of-life experience. Hospice care for your family Assured Nursing strives to provide the best service to our clients and employees.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Indianapolis, IN, US

Year founded

2001