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First Assistant Nurse Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

First Assist * Discipline: RN * Start Date: ASAP * Duration: 13 weeks * 40 hours per week * Shift: 8 hours * Employment Type: Travel Estimated Pay Package : Up to $ 2292.07 per week *The above pay ...

New

The RN First Assistant (RNFA) collaborates with the surgeon in performing an invasive or operative procedure in a safe manner with optimal outcomes for the patient whose protective reflexes or self ...

The RN First Assistant (RNFA) collaborates with the surgeon in performing an invasive or operative procedure in a safe manner with optimal outcomes for the patient whose protective reflexes or self ...

CVOR First Assist * Discipline: RN * Start Date: 11/02/2026 * Duration: 13 weeks * 40 hours per week * Shift: 8 hours * Employment Type: Travel Estimated Pay Package : Up to $ 3314.20 per week *The ...

RN First Assistant

OH ยท On-site

$38 - $58/hr

The Registered Nurse First Assistant is responsible through nursing processes for providing and coordinating nursing care and resource management for patients and families in the operating room.

The RN First Assistant (RNFA) collaborates with the surgeon in performing an invasive or operative procedure in a safe manner with optimal outcomes for the patient whose protective reflexes or self ...

The Registered Nurse First Assistant is responsible through nursing processes for providing and coordinating nursing care and resource management for patients and families in the operating room.

Showing results 21-40

First Assistant Nurse information

See Ohio salary details

$20.9K

$36K

$51.3K

How much do first assistant nurse jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for first assistant nurse in Ohio is $35,972.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29,900.00 and $39,500.00 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 Ohio are hiring for First Assistant Nurse jobs?

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

Infographic showing various First Assistant Nurse job openings in Ohio as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,972 per year, or $17.3 per hour.

Registered Nurse First Assistant

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Fairlawn, OH โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

About This Job

As a Registered Nurse First Assistant (RNFA), you play a critical role in the surgical team, directly supporting surgeons and ensuring optimal patient outcomes. You extend the surgeon's capabilities, providing advanced nursing care in the operating room. This position demands precision, expertise, and a deep commitment to patient safety and surgical excellence. You contribute significantly to the efficiency and success of surgical procedures, directly impacting patient recovery and well-being.

Job Duties and Responsibilities
  • Assists surgeons directly during various surgical procedures, anticipating needs and responding effectively.
  • Performs precise suturing and wound closure techniques, ensuring optimal healing and cosmetic results.
  • Achieves and maintains hemostasis through various methods, minimizing blood loss and complications.
  • Handles delicate tissue with expert care, preventing damage and promoting patient recovery.
  • Maintains strict sterile technique and aseptic technique throughout the surgical field, preventing infection.
  • Contributes to comprehensive perioperative care, from patient assessment to post-operative planning.
  • Executes safe and effective patient positioning for surgery, preventing injury and optimizing surgical access.
  • Manages and utilizes a wide range of surgical instruments with proficiency and confidence.
  • Collaborates with the surgical team, anesthesiologists, and other healthcare professionals to deliver seamless care.
  • Applies advanced knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and surgical procedures to support decision-making.
Required QualificationsEducation
  • Holds a current, unencumbered Registered Nurse (RN) license and current CNOR certification. BLS required
  • Completion ofan accredited Registered Nurse First Assistant (RNFA) program.
Experience
  • Possesses a minimum of two years of operating room (OR) experience as a circulating or scrub nurse.
  • Demonstrates prior experience in a first assistant role.
Knowledge/Skills
  • Applies expert knowledge in Surgical Assisting, Suturing, Hemostasis, and Tissue Handling.
  • Masters techniques for Wound Closure, Sterile Technique, and Aseptic Technique.
  • Understands and implements best practices in Perioperative Care and Patient Positioning.
  • Proficiently uses and identifies Surgical Instruments.
  • Exhibits strong critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
  • Communicates clearly and effectively with surgical team members and patients.
Required Qualifications
  • Possesses experience in a specialized surgical area (e.g., cardiovascular, neurosurgery, orthopedics).