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First Assist Jobs in Oklahoma (NOW HIRING)

SSM Health

Registered Nurse - First Assist

Shawnee, OK · On-site

Completion of an RNFA program that meets the AORN standards for RN first assistant education program or RNFA education equivalency for CRNFA EXPERIENCE * Two years' registered nurse experience in an ...

SSM Health

Registered Nurse - First Assist

Shawnee, OK · On-site

Completion of an RNFA program that meets the AORN standards for RN first assistant education program or RNFA education equivalency for CRNFA EXPERIENCE * Two years' registered nurse experience in an ...

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First Assist information

See Oklahoma salary details

$8

$17

$26

How much do first assist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for first assist in Oklahoma is $17.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.99 and $19.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What skills do you need for a first assist?

A first assist role typically requires strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to follow instructions precisely. Knowledge of medical procedures, certifications such as CPR or basic life support, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment are also important.

What are some common challenges faced by first assist professionals in the operating room, and how can they be managed?

First Assist professionals often encounter the challenge of adapting quickly to different surgeons' preferences and surgical techniques, as well as managing fast-paced, high-pressure situations. Effective communication and anticipation of the surgical team's needs are essential to ensure smooth procedures. Staying current with advances in surgical technology and participating in ongoing training can help First Assists overcome these challenges and contribute positively to patient outcomes.

What is a first assist?

First Assist professionals, also known as Surgical First Assistants or First Assistants, are healthcare practitioners who work alongside surgeons during operations. Their primary role is to provide direct support in the operating room, such as preparing the surgical site, controlling bleeding, suturing, and handling surgical instruments. First Assists may be registered nurses, physician assistants, or surgical technologists with specialized training. They are essential team members who help ensure procedures run smoothly, safely, and efficiently. Their responsibilities vary depending on the surgical team and type of procedure.

What is the difference between First Assist vs Surgical Technologist?

AspectFirst AssistSurgical Technologist
CredentialsCertified First Assistant (CFA), surgical assisting certificationsCertified Surgical Technologist (CST), surgical tech certifications
Work EnvironmentAssist surgeons directly during procedures, operating roomsPrepare operating rooms, sterilize instruments, assist during surgeries
Employer & IndustryHospitals, surgical centers, clinicsHospitals, outpatient surgical centers, clinics

First Assist and Surgical Technologist roles both work in surgical settings, but First Assist professionals directly support surgeons during procedures, requiring advanced certifications. Surgical Technologists prepare the operating room and assist indirectly. While both are vital in surgical teams, First Assist roles involve more direct patient and surgical support, often with higher certification requirements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a first assist?

To thrive as a First Assist, you need a solid background in surgical techniques, anatomy, and sterile procedures, usually supported by certification as a Surgical First Assistant or Physician Assistant. Familiarity with surgical instruments, operating room technology, and patient monitoring systems is essential. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are critical soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient surgeries and optimal outcomes for patients.

How long does it take to be a first assist?

Becoming a first assist typically requires completing a registered nursing program or a physician assistant program, followed by specialized training or certification in surgical assisting. The process can take approximately 2 to 4 years depending on the educational path and certification requirements.
What cities in Oklahoma are hiring for First Assist jobs? Cities in Oklahoma with the most First Assist job openings:
First Assist jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Assist job openings in Oklahoma as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,386 per year, or $17.5 per hour.

RN, Registered Nurse/ First Assist (RNFA)

Oklahoma Heart Hospital

Oklahoma City, OK • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago

Oklahoma Heart Hospital rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 41 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

79th of 1,055 rated hospitals

Job description

Overview
Join Our Team at Oklahoma Heart Hospital (OHH)

ONE TEAM. ALL HEART. At OHH, we believe that patient care is truly at the heart of everything we do. Our dedicated team members are involved in every step of our patients' journeys, bringing hope, compassion, and healing to both patients and their families. Together with our physicians and caregivers, we're shaping the future of heart care in Oklahoma by serving the state and leading the nation.

Why You'll Love Working Here:
  • Comprehensive Benefits:
    • Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage
    • 401(k) plan with employer match
    • Long-term and short-term disability
    • Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
    • Paid Time Off (PTO)
    • Extended Medical Benefits (EMB)
    • Opportunities for continuing education and professional growth

Please note that benefits may vary by position, and some roles (like PRN, Flex, Float, etc.) may have exclusions. For eligible positions, benefits start on your first day!

We can't wait for you to join our heart-centered team!

Responsibilities

The OHH RNFA/ RN Registered Nurse First Assistant is responsible for direct patient care in the assigned department and as needed in other areas of the Oklahoma Heart Hospital. Demonstrates knowledge and adherence to federal and state regulations. Actively participates in the routine checks of all equipment used in the Surgery Department. Collaborates with the Director, Manager, and all other team members in idea sharing, utilization of resources, as well as assists in the cross training of the staff when assigned. Assists the Director as needed for projects aimed at achieving the hospital mission and incorporating the values of the hospital in day-to-day activities. Participates in and encourages team work to provide patient focused care.

The scope of practice of the registered nurse performing as first assistant is a part of perioperative nursing practice. Perioperative nursing is a specialized area of practice. The activities included in first assisting are further refinements of perioperative nursing practice which are executed within the context of the nursing process. First assisting nursing behaviors are based on an extensive body of scientific knowledge. Certain of these behaviors include delegated medical functions that are unique to the perioperative RN qualified to practice as an RNFA. RN first assistant behavior vary depending on patient populations, practice environments, services provided, accessibility of human and fiscal Managers, institutional policy, and state nurse practice acts. These intraoperative nursing behaviors may include:

  • Handling and or cutting tissue
  • Providing exposure
  • Using instruments/medical devices
  • Suturing
  • Providing hemostasis
  • Saphenous Vein Harvesting

Qualifications

Education: Graduate of an accredited nursing program. Completion of a RNFA program that meets the "AORN Recommended Education Standards for RN First Assisting Programs" and is accepted by the Certification Board of Perioperative Nursing

Licensure/Certification: Registered Nurse with current state licensure, Certification in Perioperative Nursing (CNOR), Certification as Registered Nurse First Assistant (CRNFA) or in the process of becoming certified within six months of employment, current BLS required.

Experience: Minimum of two (2) years recent perioperative nursing experience. Competency in scrubbing, circulating, or first assisting roles of the intraoperative nursing dimension.

As part of our team, you are empowered to work collaboratively with our physicians and other caregivers, and play an integral role in setting the standard for excellence in patient care.Every team member at OHH plays an integral role in our patients' experience. Theyare the reason OHH continues to serve the state and lead the nation. Be part of the future of cardiac care.

The OHH RNFA/ RN Registered Nurse First Assistant is responsible for direct patient care in the assigned department and as needed in other areas of the Oklahoma Heart Hospital. Demonstrates knowledge and adherence to federal and state regulations. Actively participates in the routine checks of all equipment used in the Surgery Department. Collaborates with the Director, Manager, and all other team members in idea sharing, utilization of resources, as well as assists in the cross training of the staff when assigned. Assists the Director as needed for projects aimed at achieving the hospital mission and incorporating the values of the hospital in day-to-day activities. Participates in and encourages team work to provide patient focused care.

The scope of practice of the registered nurse performing as first assistant is a part of perioperative nursing practice. Perioperative nursing is a specialized area of practice. The activities included in first assisting are further refinements of perioperative nursing practice which are executed within the context of the nursing process. First assisting nursing behaviors are based on an extensive body of scientific knowledge. Certain of these behaviors include delegated medical functions that are unique to the perioperative RN qualified to practice as an RNFA. RN first assistant behavior vary depending on patient populations, practice environments, services provided, accessibility of human and fiscal Managers, institutional policy, and state nurse practice acts. These intraoperative nursing behaviors may include:

  • Handling and or cutting tissue
  • Providing exposure
  • Using instruments/medical devices
  • Suturing
  • Providing hemostasis
  • Saphenous Vein Harvesting

Education: Graduate of an accredited nursing program. Completion of a RNFA program that meets the "AORN Recommended Education Standards for RN First Assisting Programs" and is accepted by the Certification Board of Perioperative Nursing

Licensure/Certification: Registered Nurse with current state licensure, Certification in Perioperative Nursing (CNOR), Certification as Registered Nurse First Assistant (CRNFA) or in the process of becoming certified within six months of employment, current BLS required.

Experience: Minimum of two (2) years recent perioperative nursing experience. Competency in scrubbing, circulating, or first assisting roles of the intraoperative nursing dimension.

As part of our team, you are empowered to work collaboratively with our physicians and other caregivers, and play an integral role in setting the standard for excellence in patient care. Every team member at OHH plays an integral role in our patients' experience. They are the reason OHH continues to serve the state and lead the nation. Be part of the future of cardiac care.

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