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Rn First Assistant Jobs in Rochelle, IL (NOW HIRING)

Registered Nurse (RN)

Dekalb, IL · On-site

$35 - $42.76/hr

Strong CNA support * Consistent leadership presence * Stable census - no surprises * Respect for ... Current Illinois RN license * Graduate of accredited nursing program (we love new grads ...

Registered Nurse

Rockford, IL · On-site

$39 - $45/hr

Registered Nurse (RN) $39.00 - $45.00/hour | Part-time 2:00p-10:30p and PRN Location: Wesley ... Applicable registry verification (CNA. Nurse) * Motor vehicle record view for positions requiring ...

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Rn First Assistant information

See Rochelle, IL salary details

$34.5K

$103.9K

$179.9K

How much do rn first assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for rn first assistant in Rochelle, IL is $103,859.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,800.00 and $125,900.00 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 Rochelle, IL? For Rn First Assistant jobs in Rochelle, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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What cities near Rochelle, IL are hiring for Rn First Assistant jobs? Cities near Rochelle, IL with the most Rn First Assistant job openings:
Advanced Practice Provider, Cardiothoracic Surgery - Inpatient/First Assist

Advanced Practice Provider, Cardiothoracic Surgery - Inpatient/First Assist

UW Health

Rockford, IL

$138K - $148K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


UW Health rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 218 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

85th of 880 rated healthcare providers


Job description

UW Health in northern Illinois is seeking an exceptional Advanced Practice Provider (Physician Assistant or Nurse Practitioner w/ First Assist) to join our dynamic Cardiothoracic Surgery team. This is a unique opportunity to become a vital part of a growing and innovative service line dedicated to providing outstanding care to our cardiothoracic patients.

We are looking for experienced or highly motivated APPs with a passion for cardiothoracic surgery and a commitment to excellence in patient care. As part of our team, you will benefit from:

  • Professional Growth: Enjoy ongoing professional development opportunities, including access to continuing education, mentorship, and the ability to expand your scope within advanced procedures.
  • Impact & Innovation: Be part of a forward-thinking program where your contributions directly shape the future of cardiothoracic care in northern Illinois.
  • Work-Life Balance:  We value your well-being and support a balanced schedule that allows you to thrive both professionally and personally.

Your clinical support includes the following:

  • Deliver inpatient care for cardiothoracic patients, including daily rounding in the ICU and step-down units.
  • Serve as first assist in the operating room, including opportunities to participate in robotic-assisted cardiac and thoracic procedures.
  • Manage pre- and post-operative care, ensuring seamless transitions from surgery through recovery and discharge.
  • Collaborate with the team on advanced programs such as Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) and lung cancer care with the Carbone Cancer Center.
  • Be part of a robust call schedule (1:4 rotation) with additional weekend/call compensation.
  • Join the region's only designated Heart Hospital, serving a 12-county regional referral base of over 500,000 people.
  • A collaborative and supportive work environment at one of Forbes' Best-In-State employers in Illinois.

Qualifications:

  • Licensed as a Physician Assistant (PA) or Nurse Practitioner with their First Assist (NP w/ RNFA) in the state of Illinois and active DEA license (or the ability to obtain licensure prior to or upon hire).
  • Experience in cardiothoracic surgery, critical care, or cardiology strongly preferred.
  • Strong procedural skills and a desire to grow in the field of cardiothoracic surgery.
  • Commitment to providing patient-centered, compassionate care

Benefits

 Our comprehensive benefits package includes:

  • Competitive salary range (based on experience):
    • $138,317 - $148,749
  • Generous vacation and CME benefits
  • Potential opportunity for additional compensation 
  • Professional society dues, credentialing expenses & hospital dues covered
  • Interview and relocation expenses paid 
  • Flexible insurance package with health, dental, vision, disability and life

  • Retirement Plan match and contribution
  • Malpractice with tail coverage 
  • Generous provider referral bonus 

About the Greater Rockford Area:

Recently named the number one housing market in America by The Wall Street Journal, Rockford and northern Illinois offer world-class attractions - all at a cost of living significantly below those of most metropolitan areas. The greater Rockford area offers superb cultural, recreational, and outdoor amenities along with an eclectic arts community of theater, symphony, museums and dance. With an award-winning park district, Rockford has unrivaled outdoor opportunities, including Golf Digest-ranked golf courses, endless bike trails and extensive indoor and outdoor sports centers. We have excellent private, parochial and public-school options, including the Gifted Academy with graduates ranked in the top 5% nationally. Our proximity to Chicago O'Hare International Airport opens up countless travel possibilities, and Chicago, Milwaukee and Madison are each just 90 minutes away or less.

Our Commitment to Social Impact and Belonging

UW Health is committed to fostering a workplace that creates belonging for everyone and is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. Our respect for people shines through patient care interactions and our daily work practices as we work to embrace the knowledge, unique perspectives and qualities each employee and faculty member brings to work each day. It is the policy of UW Health to provide equal opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.


What UW Health employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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About UW Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

UW Health Clinics - our physicians and staff are dedicated to providing an exceptional patient and family experience by delivering the highest quality of care in a compassionate environment. With more than 80 primary and specialty care clinics located throughout Dane County and the surrounding areas, we are proud to have the opportunity to impact the communities we serve.

Industry

Health care and social assistance and hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Madison, WI, US