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First Assistant Nurse Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

$16.50 - $21/hr

Provide necessary health assistance, medical treatment, medication administration and first aid to students during school hours. Tentative -Support Staff - 26-27 Healthcare School Nurse -FT/BEN

$16.50 - $21/hr

Provide necessary health assistance, medical treatment, medication administration and first aid to students during school hours. Tentative -Support Staff - 26-27 Healthcare School Nurse -FT/BEN

CNA Long Term Care 1st Shift M-F About VGH Virginia Gay Hospital, established in Vinton in 1923, is an independent, nonprofit critical access hospital supported by a strong local community. The ...

New

We are seeking compassionate and dedicated Certified Nursing Assistants (CNA) and Certified ... CPR and First Aid certification preferred. Education * High School Diploma/GED Experience ...

Nurse Midwife

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$97K - $121K/yr

Perform vaginal births, laceration repairs, and serve as first surgical assist for cesarean ... Nurse Triage Service serves as the first line for after-hours patient calls, managing routine OB/GY ...

CNA - 1st shift

Davenport, IA · On-site

$21 - $22.25/hr

Are you a compassionate Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) who thrives during the quiet hours and takes pride in providing exceptional resident care? Join our dedicated long-term care team for 1st ...

Are you a compassionate Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) who thrives during the quiet hours and takes pride in providing exceptional resident care? Join our dedicated long-term care team for 1st ...

Provide necessary health assistance, medical treatment, medication administration and first aid to students during school hours.

Showing results 41-60

First Assistant Nurse information

See Iowa salary details

$20.7K

$35.5K

$50.7K

How much do first assistant nurse jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for first assistant nurse in Iowa is $35,540.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29,600.00 and $39,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a first assistant nurse?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a first assistant nurse?

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 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.

Is becoming a first assistant nurse worth it?

Becoming a first assistant nurse can be worthwhile for those interested in advanced clinical roles, as it often involves specialized training and certification, such as a surgical assisting certification. The position offers opportunities for increased responsibility, higher pay, and working closely with surgical teams in healthcare settings. However, it requires additional education and experience compared to standard nursing roles.

What are popular job titles related to First Assistant Nurse jobs in Iowa?

For First Assistant Nurse jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for First Assistant Nurse jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most First Assistant Nurse job openings:

Support Stafff-Healthcare Assistant/Nurse

Jobs - FAPT

On-site

$16.50 - $21/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 hours ago


Job description

Provide necessary health assistance, medical treatment, medication administration and first aid to students during school hours.
Tentative -Support Staff - 26-27 Healthcare School Nurse -FT/BEN