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Rn First Assistant Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Medlivo

Travel RN First Assist

Clackamas, OR · On-site

Medlivo is seeking a travel nurse RN First Assist for a travel nursing job in Clackamas, Oregon. & Requirements * Specialty: First Assist * Discipline: RN * Duration: 13 weeks * 40 hours per week

Cynet Health

RN - FA

Clackamas, OR · On-site

Certified RN First Assist (CRNFA) We are seeking a Certified RN First Assist (CRNFA) to join our team. The position involves assisting in surgical procedures and patient care. Candidates must possess ...

Kaiser Permanente

RN, OR First Assist

Clackamas, OR · On-site

$58.59/hr

... RN First Assistants. Practice within limitations of preparation and experience. Demonstrate RNFA specific clinical skills. Review and update skills checklist on an ongoing basis as specified by ...

Kaiser Permanente

RN, OR First Assist

Clackamas, OR · On-site

$58.59/hr

... RN First Assistants. Practice within limitations of preparation and experience. Demonstrate RNFA specific clinical skills. Review and update skills checklist on an ongoing basis as specified by ...

Trustaff

Travel Nurse RN - Home Health

Portland, OR · On-site

Trustaff is seeking a travel nurse RN Home Health for a travel nursing job in Portland, Oregon ... Home Health About Trustaff Our nurse-first attitude has set us apart from other travel nursing ...

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All JobsRn First JobsRn First Assistant JobsRn First Assistant Jobs in Portland, OR

Rn First Assistant information

See Portland, OR salary details

$37.6K

$113.3K

$196.2K

How much do rn first assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for rn first assistant in Portland, OR is $113,268.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,700.00 and $137,300.00 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, often requiring specialized training and certification in surgical assisting. RNFAs help improve surgical efficiency and patient outcomes in operating rooms.

How much does an RN first assist make?

An RN First Assistant typically earns between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and healthcare facility. They assist surgeons during procedures and require specialized training and certification, which can influence salary levels.

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 becoming an RNFA worth it?

Becoming a Registered Nurse First Assistant (RNFA) can enhance career opportunities by allowing nurses to assist directly in surgical procedures, often leading to higher earning potential and expanded responsibilities. It requires additional certification and clinical experience, but it can be a valuable credential for those interested in perioperative care and surgical support roles.

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 become first assistants in surgical procedures if they complete specialized training and certification, such as a perioperative nursing certification or a surgical assisting program. The role typically requires additional education, experience in the operating room, and adherence to state and institutional regulations. Not all RNs are qualified to serve as first assistants without these credentials and training.

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.
What are popular job titles related to Rn First Assistant jobs in Portland, OR? For Rn First Assistant jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Rn First Assistant jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Rn First Assistant jobs in Portland, OR are:
What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Rn First Assistant jobs? Cities near Portland, OR with the most Rn First Assistant job openings:
Rn First Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rn First Assistant job openings in Portland, OR as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,281 per year, or $54.5 per hour.

Travel RN First Assist

Medlivo

Clackamas, OR • On-site

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Medlivo is seeking a travel nurse RN First Assist for a travel nursing job in Clackamas, Oregon.

Job Description & Requirements
  • Specialty: First Assist
  • Discipline: RN
  • Duration: 13 weeks
  • 40 hours per week
  • Shift: 8 hours, days
  • Employment Type: Travel

Must-Have Requirements:
•Active Oregon RN license required.
•RNFA (Registered Nurse First Assistant) certification required.
•Recent 1 year of RN First Assist experience in the operating room required.
•Experience assisting surgeons during perioperative procedures and maintaining sterile technique.
•Required certification: BLS (AHA).
•Valid driver's license.
•Two supervisor or manager references from the past year.
•Shift & Contract: Evenings | 5 x 8s | 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM
•Guaranteed Hours: 40 hours per week.
•13-week initial contract.

Medlivo Job ID #KAISJP00253376. Pay package is based on 8 hour shifts and 40 hours per week (subject to confirmation) with tax-free stipend amount to be determined.

About Medlivo


Benefits
  • Dental benefits
  • Vision benefits
  • 401k retirement plan
  • Health Care FSA
  • Life insurance
  • Sick pay
  • Holiday Pay
  • Medical benefits

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