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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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$65

How much do first assist nurse jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 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 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 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 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 are popular job titles related to First Assist Nurse jobs?

For First Assist Nurse jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

First Assist Nurse jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Assist Nurse job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,321 per year, or $38.6 per hour.

Surgery - General Nurse Practitioner

Springfield, MO • On-site

CT Assist
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about CT Assistexternal

$120K - $180K/yr

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Join a Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery team that treats the entire spectrum of cardiothoracic disease including disorders of the heart, lungs, esophagus and aorta in the chest. Their expertise and experience allow state-of-the-art care for chest problems from the most routine to the most complex.

  • Full Scope Cardiothoracic Surgery Physician Assistant/Nurse Practitioner
  • M-F, days
  • Rotating night and weekend call
  • First Assist and Vein Harvesting Skills Required
  • Place and remove chest tubes, arterial lines
  • EMR: Epic
  • CABG, Valve Replacement, TAVR, ECMO
  • Missouri
  • Salary set by client, equivalent positions range around $120000 - $180000

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