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First Assist Nurse Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CT Assist

CT Surgery NP, Perm

Springfield, MO · On-site

$120K - $180K/yr

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 Jul 15, 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.

How to make an extra $2000 a month as a nurse?

First Assist Nurses can increase their income by taking on per diem or overtime shifts, working in high-demand specialties, or obtaining additional certifications such as ACLS or PALS to qualify for higher-paying roles. Freelance or consulting opportunities, such as health education or training, can also supplement income outside regular hours.

Is becoming an RNFA worth it?

Becoming a First Assist Nurse (RNFA) can enhance career opportunities by allowing nurses to participate directly in surgical procedures, often leading to higher compensation and expanded responsibilities. It requires additional certification and clinical experience, and job demand varies by healthcare facility and region.

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.

How much does a first assist nurse make?

A first assist nurse, also known as a surgical first assistant, typically earns between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and healthcare setting. Certification as a surgical technologist or nurse practitioner can influence salary levels, and many work in hospitals or surgical centers with variable schedules.

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.

What does a nurse first assistant do?

A nurse first assistant, also known as a surgical technologist or scrub nurse, assists surgeons during procedures by preparing the operating room, sterilizing equipment, and passing instruments. They work closely with the surgical team to ensure a sterile environment and may have specialized training or certification in perioperative nursing. Their role is essential for patient safety and efficient surgical operations.
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:
What job categories do people searching First Assist Nurse jobs look for? The top searched job categories for First Assist Nurse jobs are:
First Assist Nurse jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Assist Nurse job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,321 per year, or $38.6 per hour.

Travel RN First Assistant, Operating Room - $3,799 per week

Malone Healthcare - Nursing

Santa Maria, CA • On-site

$3.7K/wk

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Malone Healthcare - Nursing is seeking a travel nurse RN First Assist for a travel nursing job in Santa Maria, California.

Job Description & Requirements
  • Specialty: First Assist
  • Discipline: RN
  • Start Date: 07/27/2026
  • Duration: 13 weeks
  • 40 hours per week
  • Shift: 12 hours, days
  • Employment Type: Travel

Looking for a great Travel First Assist Nursing Job in Santa Maria, California? Malone Healthcare - Nursing posted this Travel Nursing Job that offers 40 hours a week for 13 weeks in Santa Maria, California.

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: Santa Maria, California
  • Travel Nurse Salary: $3,799/week
  • Start Date: 07/27/2026
  • Assignment Length: 13 weeks
  • Total Hours Per Week: 40 weekly
  • Shift Breakdown: 3x12 hrs
  • Shift: 12 hours, days
About Malone Healthcare - Nursing

With a commitment to providing a higher standard of service and experience in patient care, Malone Healthcare places expert nurses and allied health professionals in rewarding careers throughout the United States. As a leading healthcare staffing agency, Malone’s focus on compliance and integrity translates to a seamless experience for our team members and partner facilities. When you work with Malone Healthcare, you can rely on over 50 years of proven experience placing exceptional professionals in quality healthcare settings.

Benefits
  • Weekly pay
  • Holiday Pay
  • Guaranteed Hours
  • Continuing Education
  • 401k retirement plan
  • Pet insurance
  • Referral bonus
  • Medical benefits
  • Dental benefits
  • Vision benefits
  • License and certification reimbursement
  • Life insurance

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