ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

First Nurse Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mary Greeley Medical Center

FIRST NURSE

Ames, IA · On-site

Licensed as a Registered Nurse and authorized by the State of Iowa to practice nursing. * Three (3) or more years nursing experience in acute or ambulatory care services. * Achievement of ...

Mary Greeley Medical Center

FIRST NURSE

Ames, IA · On-site

Licensed as a Registered Nurse and authorized by the State of Iowa to practice nursing. * Three (3) or more years nursing experience in acute or ambulatory care services. * Achievement of ...

Mary Greeley Medical Center

FIRST NURSE

Ames, IA · On-site

Licensed as a Registered Nurse and authorized by the State of Iowa to practice nursing. * Three (3) or more years nursing experience in acute or ambulatory care services. * Achievement of ...

Trustaff

Travel Nurse RN - First Assist

Atlanta, GA · On-site

First Assist * Discipline: RN * Start Date: 11/30/2026 * Duration: 15 weeks * 36 hours per week * Shift: 12 hours, days * Employment Type: Travel As a Registered First Nurse Assistant, you are an ...

Trustaff

Travel Nurse RN - First Assist

Santa Maria, CA · On-site

First Assist * Discipline: RN * Start Date: ASAP * Duration: 13 weeks * 40 hours per week * Shift: 10 hours, days * Employment Type: Travel As a Registered First Nurse Assistant, you are an important ...

Trustaff

Travel Nurse RN - First Assist

Carbondale, IL · On-site

First Assist * Discipline: RN * Start Date: 09/21/2026 * Duration: 13 weeks * 40 hours per week * Shift: 8 hours, days * Employment Type: Travel As a Registered First Nurse Assistant, you are an ...

New

Trustaff

Travel Nurse RN - First Assist

Lakeport, CA · On-site

First Assist * Discipline: RN * Start Date: 09/21/2026 * Duration: 13 weeks * 40 hours per week * Shift: 10 hours, days * Employment Type: Travel As a Registered First Nurse Assistant, you are an ...

Trustaff

Travel Nurse RN - First Assist

Greenwich, CT · On-site

First Assist * Discipline: RN * Start Date: 09/21/2026 * Duration: 13 weeks * 40 hours per week * Shift: 10 hours, days * Employment Type: Travel As a Registered First Nurse Assistant, you are an ...

Trustaff

Travel Nurse RN - First Assist

Pittsfield, MA · On-site

First Assist * Discipline: RN * Start Date: 09/21/2026 * Duration: 13 weeks * 40 hours per week * Shift: 10 hours, days * Employment Type: Travel As a Registered First Nurse Assistant, you are an ...

Trustaff

Travel Nurse RN - First Assist

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

First Assist * Discipline: RN * Start Date: 09/08/2026 * Duration: 13 weeks * 40 hours per week * Shift: 8 hours, days * Employment Type: Travel As a Registered First Nurse Assistant, you are an ...

Trustaff

Travel Nurse RN - First Assist

Lenexa, KS · On-site

First Assist * Discipline: RN * Start Date: ASAP * Duration: 13 weeks * 40 hours per week * Shift: 8 hours, days * Employment Type: Travel As a Registered First Nurse Assistant, you are an important ...

Trustaff

Travel Nurse RN - First Assist

Clackamas, OR · On-site

First Assist * Discipline: RN * Start Date: ASAP * Duration: 13 weeks * 40 hours per week * Shift: 8 hours, days * Employment Type: Travel As a Registered First Nurse Assistant, you are an important ...

Trustaff

Travel Nurse RN - First Assist

Asheville, NC · On-site

First Assist * Discipline: RN * Start Date: ASAP * Duration: 13 weeks * 40 hours per week * Shift: 10 hours, days * Employment Type: Travel As a Registered First Nurse Assistant, you are an important ...

Trustaff

Travel Nurse RN - First Assist

Atlanta, GA · On-site

First Assist * Discipline: RN * Start Date: 09/21/2026 * Duration: 16 weeks * 36 hours per week * Shift: 12 hours, days * Employment Type: Travel As a Registered First Nurse Assistant, you are an ...

Trustaff

Travel Nurse RN - First Assist

Cleveland, OH · On-site

First Assist * Discipline: RN * Start Date: 11/02/2026 * Duration: 13 weeks * 40 hours per week * Shift: 8 hours, days * Employment Type: Travel As a Registered First Nurse Assistant, you are an ...

Trustaff

Travel Nurse RN - First Assist

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

First Assist * Discipline: RN * Start Date: 09/21/2026 * Duration: 13 weeks * 40 hours per week * Shift: 8 hours, days * Employment Type: Travel As a Registered First Nurse Assistant, you are an ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsHealthcare JobsNursing JobsSurgical Nurse JobsFirst Nurse Jobs

First Nurse information

See salary details

$17

$38

$65

How much do first nurse jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for first nurse in the United States is $38.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.57 and $43.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a first nurse?

First Nurses, often referred to as triage nurses or the first point of contact in a healthcare setting, are registered nurses responsible for assessing and prioritizing patients as they arrive in clinics or emergency departments. They perform initial evaluations, record vital signs, gather medical histories, and determine the urgency of care needed. Their quick and accurate assessments help ensure that the most critical patients receive timely treatment. First Nurses play a crucial role in patient safety and the overall efficiency of healthcare delivery.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a first nurse, and why are they important?

To thrive as a First Nurse (commonly known as a Charge Nurse or Head Nurse), you need an active RN license, clinical expertise, and experience in patient care leadership. Familiarity with healthcare management systems, electronic health records (EHRs), and scheduling software is typically required. Outstanding organizational, leadership, and communication skills help manage nursing teams and coordinate patient care. These abilities are crucial for ensuring high-quality patient outcomes, efficient team operations, and maintaining safety standards within healthcare settings.

What are some common challenges first nurses face when transitioning into a new healthcare facility?

First Nurses often encounter challenges when adapting to a new healthcare facility, such as learning unique protocols, integrating with established teams, and navigating new electronic health record systems. Building rapport with colleagues and understanding the specific needs of patient populations served by the facility are also key parts of the transition. However, most organizations provide structured onboarding, mentorship, and ongoing training to help First Nurses acclimate and succeed in their roles.

What is the difference between First Nurse vs Registered Nurse?

AspectFirst NurseRegistered Nurse
CredentialsTypically requires a nursing diploma or certificateRequires an RN license, usually a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Work EnvironmentOften in community health, clinics, or as a first point of contactHospitals, clinics, long-term care, and various healthcare settings
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in primary care, community health, and outpatient servicesWidely employed across healthcare facilities and hospitals

First Nurses generally have basic nursing certifications and work mainly in community or outpatient settings. Registered Nurses (RNs) have advanced credentials, including licensure, and work in diverse healthcare environments. The main difference lies in their qualifications and scope of practice, with RNs typically having more responsibilities and a broader range of duties.

How hard is it to get your first nurse job?

Securing a first nurse job can be competitive and often requires completing a nursing program, passing the NCLEX-RN exam, and obtaining licensure. Entry-level positions may have varying requirements, but demonstrating clinical skills, relevant certifications, and a strong application can improve chances of employment.

How to start a career in first nurse with no experience?

To start a career as a first nurse with no experience, obtain a nursing diploma or degree and pass the licensing exam to become a registered nurse. Gaining clinical experience through internships or entry-level nursing assistant roles can also help build skills and improve job prospects.

What is a good job to have before becoming a first nurse?

A good job before becoming a first nurse is often in healthcare or caregiving, such as certified nursing assistant (CNA), medical assistant, or home health aide, as these roles develop patient care skills and familiarity with medical environments. Experience in these positions can provide foundational knowledge and improve readiness for nursing programs and responsibilities.

What cities are hiring for First Nurse jobs?

Cities with the most First Nurse job openings:

What states have the most First Nurse jobs?

States with the most job openings for First Nurse jobs include:

First Nurse jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Nurse job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,321 per year, or $38.6 per hour.

FIRST NURSE

Mary Greeley Medical Center

Ames, IA • On-site

Other

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

Mary Greeley Medical Center rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

751st of 1,064 rated hospitals

Job description

  • Position Summary
    • Provides clinical assessment, triage, and care guidance via telephone and virtual platforms. Serves as a primary point of entry into the health system, ensuring patients receive the right care, at the right time, in the right setting. Utilizes evidence-based protocols, clinical judgement, and electronic health record data to support safe, timely decision-making. Promotes care coordination, patient understanding, and optimal outcomes across the continuum.
  • Position Responsibilities
    • Unit Specific Position Responsibilities
      • Serves as a primary clinical point of contact, providing real-time assessment, triage, and care guidance across the continuum.
      • Demonstrates advanced ability to assess patient-reported symptoms, synthesize clinical data, and determine appropriate disposition (emergent, urgent, routine, or self-care).
      • Applies evidence-based triage protocols in combination with clinical judgement to ensure safe, timely and appropriate care decisions.
      • Utilizes electronic health record (EHR) data and patient history to inform decision-making and enhance care continuity.
      • Ensures patients receive the right care, at the right time, and in the right setting, reducing unnecessary utilization and delays in care.
      • Demonstrates strong escalation capabilities, identifying and initiating appropriate interventions.
      • Communicates complex clinical information in a way that ensures patient comprehension, engagement, and adherence.
      • Establishes therapeutic rapport in a non-face-to-face environment, using active listening and patient-centered communication techniques.
      • Accurately documents assessments, recommendations, and decision-making to support medicolegal integrity and continuity of care.
      • Effectively manages high-volume, high-acuity call environments, maintaining accuracy, efficiency, and patient safety.
      • Collaborates with care teams and services to ensure seamless coordination and transitions of care.
      • Maintains composure and clinical effectiveness in high stress or emotionally complex situations.
      • Contributes to quality improvement and performance excellence efforts, including protocol adherence, call audits, and identification of opportunities to enhance patient outcomes and experience.
  • Qualifications, Knowledge & Experience
    • Required Qualifications (Including any licensure, certification, education):
      • Licensed as a Registered Nurse and authorized by the State of Iowa to practice nursing.
      • Three (3) or more years nursing experience in acute or ambulatory care services.
      • Achievement of Baccalaureate degree in nursing within 6 years of hire if hired after January 1, 2014.
      • Mandatory Reporter training or within 90 days of hire and must maintain throughout employment.
      • De-escalation training prior to performing direct patient care or within 90 days of hire
      • Proficient in EHR systems, telephony platforms (e.g. Cisco or similar), and clinical decision support tools, with the ability to simultaneously assess, document, and communicate real time.
    • Organizational Requirements:
      • Maintain stroke education per regulatory requirements.
    • Preferred Qualifications:
      • Experience using data, call metrics, or quality monitoring to improve performance and outcomes.
    • Required Knowledge, Skills & Experience:
      • Ability to pursue and foster a sense of team and partnership across all disciplines.
      • Ability to communicate effectively, in English, with diverse population groups.
      • Ability to be self-directed, flexible, and able to adapt to change.
      • Ability to communicate effectively in a professional and tactful manner with physicians, staff, patients and/or their representatives.
      • Ability to read and understand chart documentation.
      • Ability to demonstrate basic computer skills.
      • Ability to read, write and understand the English language.
      • Ability to work independently and make sound clinical judgements.
      • Strong clinical assessment and critical thinking skills.
      • Ability to handle high stress situations calmly and professionally.
      • Excellent interpersonal skills and patient empathy.
    • Preferred Knowledge, Skills & Experience:
      • None Specified

What Mary Greeley Medical Center employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply