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First Assistant Nurse Jobs in Nebraska (NOW HIRING)

NE · On-site

Adventist Health is seeking an RN First Assistant to support surgical services in our faith-based, mission-driven system. In this role, you will provide first-assist support to surgeons, deliver high ...

New

Assistant Nurse Practitioner

Omaha, NE

$104K - $134K/yr

Operative first assist and EVH for cardiothoracic cases Support Staff: CVOR rad techs, nurses, circulating and scrub nurses, CVOR anesthesia EMR: Epic Must be board-certified Paid travel & expenses

New

Assistant Nurse Practitioner

Omaha, NE

$104K - $134K/yr

Operative first assist and EVH for cardiothoracic cases Support Staff: CVOR rad techs, nurses, circulating and scrub nurses, CVOR anesthesia EMR: Epic Must be board-certified Paid travel & expenses

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First Assistant Nurse information

See Nebraska salary details

$21K

$36.1K

$51.5K

How much do first assistant nurse jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for first assistant nurse in Nebraska is $36,077.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30,000.00 and $39,600.00 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 Nebraska?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various First Assistant Nurse job openings in Nebraska as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,077 per year, or $17.3 per hour.

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Adventist Health rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 246 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

163rd of 895 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Adventist Health is seeking an RN First Assistant to support surgical services in our faith-based, mission-driven system. In this role, you will provide first-assist support to surgeons, deliver high-quality perioperative nursing care, and help ensure safe, efficient procedures. You’ll collaborate closely with a compassionate, interdisciplinary team while promoting whole-person care—mind, body, and spirit. Adventist Health offers professional development, competitive benefits, and opportunities to impact community health in a supportive, inclusive Christian environment focused on excellence, service, and growth.


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