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First Assistant Nurse Jobs in Renton, WA (NOW HIRING)

Surgical First Assist

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$99K - $148K/yr

First Assist, OR RN, Surgical Physician Assistant (PA), Surgical Research experience, or experience working in travel assignments as a CST. LifeCenter Northwest offers medical, dental, vision, basic ...

GYN Oncology NP/PA

Seattle, WA · On-site

$124K - $160K/yr

Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant Specialty: GYN Oncology (First Assist) Job Type: Locum Tenens Location: Seattle, WA 98104 Service Setting: Inpatient/Outpatient Coverage Type: Clinical Only ...

NP/PA - Neurosurgery

Seattle, WA

$124K - $161K/yr

Neurosurgery NP/PA | Washington | August 31, 2026 - Ongoing | Seeking a Board-Certified Nurse ... Neurosurgery experience is required, and first assist experience is a plus . Epic EMR , ACLS , BLS ...

The right RN should have 1-2 years recent acute care experience as a circulating nurse, and/or scrub nurse, and potentially RN first assistant. Read below for more requirements. As an OR Travel Nurse ...

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First Assistant Nurse information

See Renton, WA salary details

$24.7K

$42.6K

$60.7K

How much do first assistant nurse jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for first assistant nurse in Renton, WA is $42,561.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35,400.00 and $46,700.00 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.
What are popular job titles related to First Assistant Nurse jobs in Renton, WA? For First Assistant Nurse jobs in Renton, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching First Assistant Nurse jobs in Renton, WA look for? The top searched job categories for First Assistant Nurse jobs in Renton, WA are:
What cities near Renton, WA are hiring for First Assistant Nurse jobs? Cities near Renton, WA with the most First Assistant Nurse job openings:
Neurosurgery Nurse Practitioner (NP)

Neurosurgery Nurse Practitioner (NP)

AMN Healthcare

Seattle, WA • On-site

$106.70 - $115.50/hr

Other

Medical, Dental

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Job Description & Requirements
Neurosurgery Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant(NP)
StartDate: ASAP Available Shifts: Regular 10;12 Pay Rate: $106.70 - $115.50

Neurosurgery Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant(NP)This facility is seeking an Emergency Medicine Physician for locum tenens support as they look to fill a current need.


Details & requirements for this opportunity:


  • Schedule: Full-time, 4x10-hour shifts per week, Monday-Friday, 7:00am-5:00pm; ongoing need starting 8/31 through next Spring. Occasional weekend beeper call coverage Saturday and Sunday, 7:00am-7:00pm.
  • Practice Setting: Inpatient
  • Types of Cases: Neurosurgery inpatient coverage, patient rounding, and beeper call coverage; first assist experience preferred but not required.
  • Credentialing Timeframe: Not specified
  • Electronic Medical Record (EMR): 30-60 Days
  • Certifications Required: DEA required, Board Certified
  • Licensure Required: Active Washington license or Active IMLC; Board Certified (BC) required



Facility Location
Surrounded by snow-covered peaks and sparkling bays, Seattle is one of the West’s most alluring cities. Relax at a sidewalk café and enjoy a latté, stroll along a waterfront park at sunset, go kayaking on Lake Union or shop for fresh fare at festive Pike Place Market. Here’s your chance to work at Seattle’s finest hospitals and to enjoy the many adventures that abound in this sparkling Northwest gem.
Job Benefits
AMN Healthcare typically arranges medical or dental malpractice insurance for the contractor providers we match to client opportunities. In addition, our locum tenens can receive highly competitive pay and a dedicated team that handles all travel, lodging, \u0009rentals and transportation needs.
About the Company
At AMN Healthcare, we strive to be recognized as the most trusted, innovative, and influential force in helping healthcare organizations provide quality patient care that continually evolves to make healthcare more human, more effective, and more achievable.
AMN Healthcare is a digitally enabled workforce solutions partner focused on solving the biggest challenges affecting healthcare organizations today. We offer a single-partner approach to optimize labor sources, increase operating margins, and provide technologies to expand the reach of care.