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Rn First Assistant Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Nightingale's List

Registered Nurse RN

Chino, CA

$78/hr

Supervise and train LVN's and nursing assistants. Expand their knowledge and capabilities by attending educational workshops, conferences etc. Requirements Must have at least 1 year RN experience ...

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All JobsRn First Assistant JobsRn First Assistant Jobs in Riverside, CA

Rn First Assistant information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$37K

$111.4K

$193K

How much do rn first assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for rn first assistant in Riverside, CA is $111,427.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,400.00 and $135,100.00 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.
What are popular job titles related to Rn First Assistant jobs in Riverside, CA? For Rn First Assistant jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Rn First Assistant jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Rn First Assistant jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Rn First Assistant jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Rn First Assistant job openings:
Rn First Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rn First Assistant job openings in Riverside, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 68% 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 $111,427 per year, or $53.6 per hour.
WAMC | RN Telemetry/Medsurgical - Nights

WAMC | RN Telemetry/Medsurgical - Nights

Skybridge Resources

Anaheim, CA

$49.50 - $58.50/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Type: Telemetry
Anaheim , CA
SkyBridge Healthcare is currently seeking Registered Nurse with Telemetry experience for a 13-week contract in CA. SkyBridge Healthcare is a premier staffing firm dedicated to matching outstanding talent with exceptional opportunities. Our commitment to excellence and our consultative approach has helped us become a leader in the Healthcare staffing industry. Whether you are an experienced traveler, or this is your first travel position, SkyBridge Healthcare puts our Nurses first and ensures a seamless travel experience.
Minimum Requirements:
1 year full time RN Telemetry experience within the last 2 years.
SkyBridge Healthcare offers industry leading benefits including:

  • Top of the line weekly pay packages
  • Travel assistance
  • Weekly tax-free stipend
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance
  • 24/7 support with a dedicated recruiter
  • This role may include a Completion Bonuses, Signing Bonuses, and generous Referral Bonuses.

SkyBridge Healthcare is dedicated to being with you every step of the way and we personally will ensure we provide you with all the tools needed to be successful.
Working in a new city is an experience in itself, especially when starting a new job you are passionate about. Your exposure to unfamiliar territory will push you to broaden your horizons, enhance your professional skills, and grow your network. SkyBridge Healthcare wants the best for our employees, and we are dedicated to helping professionals land their ideal travel assignment.
Pay Rate Range: $49.50 - $58.50
Pay Rate is dependent on seniority and other factors that will be discussed during the hiring process

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