1

First Assistant Nurse Jobs in Three Rivers, MI (NOW HIRING)

... first-assist skills and vein harvesting experience. This position is not open to new graduates the client is specifically seeking an experienced NP or PA with strong cardiothoracic surgery knowledge ...

APP Neurosurgery

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

$103K - $133K/yr

Graduate of accredited PA/NP program with unrestricted license to practice as a PA/NP in the state of Michigan. * Be able to support surgeons as OR first assist. Interested candidates contact Megan ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

First Assistant Nurse information

See Three Rivers, MI salary details

$20.3K

$34.9K

$49.8K

How much do first assistant nurse jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for first assistant nurse in Three Rivers, MI is $34,897.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29,100.00 and $38,300.00 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 near Three Rivers, MI are hiring for First Assistant Nurse jobs?

Cities near Three Rivers, MI with the most First Assistant Nurse job openings:

Cardiothoracic Surgery Nurse Practitioner (NP)

AMN Healthcare

Mishawaka, IN

$106.70 - $115.50/hr

Temporary

Medical, Dental

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

Job Description & Requirements
Cardiothoracic Surgery Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant(NP)
StartDate: ASAP Pay Rate: $106.70 - $115.50

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


Details & requirements for this opportunity:

Schedule: Monday–Friday 7:00 AM–4:00 PM plus night call and weekend 24-hour call coverage.


Practice Setting: Hospital operating room and inpatient cardiothoracic surgery service.


Types of Cases: First assist in cardiothoracic surgery, vein harvesting using Maquet system, inpatient rounding, pre-operative evaluations, post-operative care, wound care, chest tube and pacing wire removal, discharge planning, and emergency response.


Electronic Medical Record: Epic.


Certifications Required: Nurse practitioner certification or physician assistant certification, Basic Life Support and Advanced Cardiac Life Support protocols during emergencies.


Licensure Required: Indiana medical license.


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.

Compensation Information:
$106.70 / Hourly - $115.50 / Hourly