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First Assistant Nurse information

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$22K

$37.8K

$54K

How much do first assistant nurse jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for first assistant nurse in the United States is $37,838.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31,500.00 and $41,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is becoming an RNFA worth it?

Becoming a First Assistant Nurse (RNFA) can enhance career opportunities by allowing nurses to assist directly in surgical procedures, often leading to higher compensation and specialized skills. It requires additional certification and experience in perioperative nursing, making it a valuable credential for those interested in surgical support roles.

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, maintaining a sterile environment and ensuring the procedure runs smoothly. Certification and knowledge of surgical protocols are typically required for this role.

Do RNFA get paid more than RN?

Registered Nurse First Assistants (RNFAs) typically earn higher salaries than registered nurses (RNs) due to their specialized surgical assisting skills and additional training. RNFAs often work in operating rooms and may require certification, which can contribute to increased compensation compared to standard RNs.

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

To thrive as a First Assistant Nurse, you need advanced clinical skills in perioperative care, surgical procedures, and patient assessment, typically supported by RN licensure and completion of a First Assistant training program. Familiarity with surgical instruments, sterile technique, and electronic medical records is essential, and certification such as CNFA (Certified Nurse First Assistant) is often preferred. Strong attention to detail, effective communication, and the ability to work under pressure set outstanding First Assistant Nurses apart. These skills are crucial for ensuring patient safety, supporting surgeons efficiently, and maintaining optimal surgical outcomes.

What are some common challenges First Assistant Nurses face during surgical procedures, and how can they effectively address them?

First Assistant Nurses often encounter challenges such as rapidly changing surgical conditions, communicating efficiently with the surgical team, and managing instruments under pressure. To address these, it's important to stay organized, anticipate the needs of the surgeon, and maintain clear, assertive communication throughout the procedure. Continuous learning and building strong relationships with both surgeons and surgical technologists can also help improve adaptability and teamwork in the operating room.

What are First Assistant Nurses?

First Assistant Nurses, also known as Registered Nurse First Assistants (RNFAs), are specially trained nurses who assist surgeons during surgical procedures. Their responsibilities include providing direct patient care, helping with surgical instruments, controlling bleeding, suturing incisions, and ensuring the safety of the patient throughout the operation. They work alongside surgeons, anesthesiologists, and surgical technologists to ensure procedures run smoothly and safely. Typically, First Assistant Nurses have advanced education and certification beyond the standard registered nurse (RN) credentials.

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

AspectFirst Assistant NurseSurgical Technologist
CredentialsRN license, specialized surgical trainingPost-secondary certificate or diploma, surgical tech certification
Work EnvironmentHospitals, surgical centers, assisting during surgeriesOperating rooms, preparing surgical instruments, assisting surgeons
Employer & IndustryHospitals, clinics, healthcare facilitiesSurgical centers, hospitals, outpatient clinics
Common Search & ComparisonYesNo

The First Assistant Nurse and Surgical Technologist both work in surgical settings, but the First Assistant Nurse holds an RN license and provides direct patient care and assistance during surgeries. Surgical Technologists mainly prepare the operating room and assist surgeons with instruments. While both roles support surgical teams, the First Assistant Nurse has a broader scope of practice and requires nursing credentials, making it a more advanced position in the surgical environment.

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

First Assistant Nurses can increase their income by taking on overtime shifts, working in high-demand specialties, or obtaining additional certifications such as ACLS or PALS to qualify for higher-paying roles. Freelance or per diem work, such as staffing agencies or home health, can also provide extra income outside regular hours.
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First Assistant Nurse jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Assistant 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 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,838 per year, or $18.2 per hour.
Plastic Surgery First Assist Nurse Practitioner

Plastic Surgery First Assist Nurse Practitioner

ADDISON KENWAY & ASSOCIATES LLC

Columbus, OH • On-site

Other

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Plastic Surgery First Assist Nurse Practitioner - Columbus, Ohio

A premier plastic surgery center in central Ohio is recruiting an experienced Plastic Surgery First Assist Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant to join its high-volume practice. The role involves serving as first assist in operating room procedures, managing perioperative care, performing closures, and supporting comprehensive patient follow-up. A competitive compensation package is offered.

  • Experienced as a First Assist in the Operating Room
  • Physician Assistants with a rotation as a First Assist, please apply
  • Advanced skills in flap design, grafting, and complex wound closures
  • Proficiency in perioperative management and anesthesia assistance
  • Strong knowledge of plastic surgery procedures including breast, body, and facial cases
  • Active state NP/PA license and DEA registration

This region features extensive parks, trails, and family-friendly recreation areas. Housing offers affordable suburban options alongside upscale developments. Excellent public schools and a diverse economy with robust healthcare and tech sectors provide strong employment stability.

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About Addison Kenway & Associates

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Here at Addison Kenway & Associates, LLC we specialize in placing Physicians, Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, Certified Midwives and RN Management in permanent positions throughout the United States. If you are a provider looking for a great career or your organization is in need of a medical provider we can help. Our goal is to provide exceptional service resulting in successful placements in a minimum amount of time.

Industry

Hospitality services

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Lafayette, LA, US

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