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Rn First Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AHMC Healthcare

RN First Assistant

Anaheim, CA · On-site

Overview The role of the RN First Assistant to the surgeon requires the performance of a combination or nursing and medical functions. The RNFA practices advanced surgical assisting skills such as ...

AHMC Healthcare

RN First Assistant

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$53.60/hr

Overview The role of the RN First Assistant to the surgeon requires the performance of a combination or nursing and medical functions. The RNFA practices advanced surgical assisting skills such as ...

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$35.5K

$106.8K

$185K

How much do rn first assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for rn first assistant in the United States is $106,806.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,000.00 and $129,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a registered nurse first assistant do?

A registered nurse first assistant (RNFA) provides intraoperative patient care by assisting surgeons during surgeries, including tissue handling, suturing, and maintaining a sterile environment. They work closely with surgical teams and typically require specialized training and certification in surgical assisting. RNFAs help improve surgical efficiency and patient outcomes in operating rooms.

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. The pay difference varies by location, experience, and healthcare facility, but RNFAs generally receive a premium for their advanced role in the operating room.

What is the difference between Rn First Assistant vs Surgical Technologist?

AspectRn First AssistantSurgical Technologist
CredentialsRegistered Nurse license, First Assistant certificationCertified Surgical Technologist (CST) or Tech certification
Work EnvironmentHospitals, surgical centers, operating roomsOperating rooms, surgical suites, hospitals
Role FocusAssists surgeons during procedures, provides intraoperative supportPrepares operating rooms, sterilizes instruments, assists during surgery

While both roles support surgical teams, Rn First Assistants have advanced nursing credentials and directly assist surgeons during procedures, whereas Surgical Technologists prepare the surgical environment and assist indirectly. Rn First Assistants typically require more advanced certifications and have a broader scope of intraoperative responsibilities.

What are RN First Assistants?

RN First Assistants (Registered Nurse First Assistants) are specialized registered nurses who work alongside surgeons and surgical teams during operations. They play a critical role in patient care by assisting with surgical procedures, providing direct patient care before, during, and after surgery, and helping to ensure the best possible outcomes. RNFAs are trained in advanced surgical techniques, such as suturing, controlling bleeding, and handling tissues, and they must have additional education and certification beyond standard registered nurse credentials.

Is it worth it to become an RNFA?

An RN First Assistant (RNFA) is a registered nurse trained to assist surgeons during procedures, often requiring additional certification and experience. Becoming an RNFA can enhance career opportunities, increase earning potential, and provide a more advanced role in surgical teams. However, it involves additional training, certification, and a commitment to specialized skills.

What are the most common challenges faced by an RN First Assistant in the operating room?

As an RN First Assistant, one of the most common challenges is balancing direct surgical responsibilities with maintaining patient safety and effective communication within a fast-paced environment. You'll often need to anticipate the needs of the surgical team and adapt quickly to unexpected situations during procedures. Collaboration with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other OR staff is crucial, and handling stressful or high-pressure moments with composure is a key part of the role. Continuous learning and staying updated with surgical techniques also help in overcoming these challenges.

Can an RN be a first assist?

Registered Nurses (RNs) can serve as first assistants in surgical procedures if they have completed specialized training and certification in surgical assisting. However, state regulations and hospital policies vary, and additional credentials such as Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) may be required. RNs in this role typically work closely with surgeons and surgical teams, utilizing their nursing skills and knowledge of sterile techniques and anatomy.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an RN First Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as an RN First Assistant, you need advanced clinical knowledge in perioperative nursing, surgical procedures, and patient assessment, typically supported by RN licensure, perioperative experience, and CNOR or RNFA certification. Familiarity with surgical instruments, sterile technique, and electronic health records is essential for this role. Strong communication, critical thinking, and teamwork skills help you collaborate effectively with surgical teams and respond quickly in high-pressure situations. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring patient safety, reducing complications, and supporting optimal surgical outcomes.
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Rn First Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rn First Assistant job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $106,806 per year, or $51.3 per hour.
Registered Nurse First Assist (RNFA) Registered Nurse RN

Registered Nurse First Assist (RNFA) Registered Nurse RN

TLC Nursing

Templeton, CA

$2.9K/wk

Contractor

Posted yesterday

Job description

We are looking for a Travel RN First Assist RN for a great Travel nursing job in Templeton, CA.

This RN First Assist Travel nursing job pays for 40 hours a week for 13 weeks. With Wanderly you can compare Travel nurse salary from leading Travel nurse agencies in the United States.

With Wanderly you can chat and apply to any agency with Wanderly’s Universal Application, below are the details of this Travel Nursing Job including the Travel nurse salary:

  • Specialty: RN First Assist RN
  • Travel Registered Nurse First Assist (RNFA) Registered Nurse : Templeton, CA
  • Travel Nurse Salary: $2979/Week
  • Start Date: ASAP
  • Travel Nursing Job Assignment Length: 13 weeks
  • Travel Nurse Hours: 40 hours per week
  • Shift: 10 hours, Day

PK-36260513

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