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First Assistant Nurse Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Senior First Assistant RN (RNFA) Location: Midland, MI Shift: 10 Hour Days / 1-2 Call Days Per Week / Every 4th Weekend Pay: #####780/week - #####940/week On Call Rate: ##### for this position ...

Senior First Assistant RN (RNFA) Location: Midland, MI Shift: 10 Hour Days / 1-2 Call Days Per Week / Every 4th Weekend Pay: #####780/week - #####940/week On Call Rate: ##### for this position ...

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First Assistant Nurse information

See Michigan salary details

$19.2K

$33K

$47.1K

How much do first assistant nurse jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for first assistant nurse in Michigan is $32,979.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27,500.00 and $36,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 perioperative nursing certification. The position offers opportunities for increased responsibility, higher pay, and working closely with surgical teams, but requires a commitment to ongoing education and skill development.

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

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

Travel RN First Assistant - $2,882 per week

Travel Nurses Inc

Lansing, MI โ€ข On-site

$2.8K/wk

Other

Life, Retirement

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Travel Nurses, Inc. is seeking a travel nurse RN First Assist for a travel nursing job in Lansing, Michigan.

Job Description & Requirements
  • Specialty: First Assist
  • Discipline: RN
  • Start Date: ASAP
  • Duration: 13 weeks
  • 40 hours per week
  • Shift: 8 hours
  • Employment Type: Travel

Looking for a great Travel First Assist Nursing Job in Lansing, Michigan? Travel Nurses, Inc. posted this Travel Nursing Job that offers 40 hours a week for 13 weeks in Lansing, Michigan.

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: Lansing, Michigan
  • Travel Nurse Salary: $2,882/week
  • Start Date: ASAP
  • Assignment Length: 13 weeks
  • Total Hours Per Week: 40 weekly
  • Shift Breakdown: 5x8 hrs
  • Shift: 8 hours

Travel Nurses, Inc. Job ID #299915. Pay package is based on 8 hour shifts and 40 hours per week (subject to confirmation) with tax-free stipend amount to be determined. Posted job title: RNFA Registered Nurse

About Travel Nurses, Inc.

Travel Nurses, Inc. is a nurse-founded and operated healthcare staffing agency connecting nurses and allied health professionals with opportunities nationwide. Since 1988, weโ€™ve grown from supporting operating room teams in the Mid-South to serving a wide range of specialties across the country.

At our core, we believe healthcare professionals are the foundation of care. That belief drives everything we do, from how we support our clinicians to how we build long-term relationships.

We are committed to making travel simple, transparent and rewarding. With clear pay packages, dedicated recruiter support and a focus on career mobility, our clinicians can move forward with confidence.

Wherever your career takes you, youโ€™ll never go alone.

Benefits
  • Weekly pay
  • 401k retirement plan
  • Life insurance