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Rn Surgical First Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Methodist Hospital

Surgical First Assist

Cibolo, TX · On-site

This is done in collaboration with the circulating RN and other perioperative/OB team members. The Surgical First Assistant is educated and skilled in both the use of surgical instruments on tissues ...

Methodist Hospital

Surgical First Assist

Schertz, TX · On-site

This is done in collaboration with the circulating RN and other perioperative/OB team members. The Surgical First Assistant is educated and skilled in both the use of surgical instruments on tissues ...

LifeCenter Northwest

Surgical First Assist

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

First Assist, OR RN, Surgical Physician Assistant (PA), Surgical Research experience, or experience working in travel assignments as a CST. Benefits and Compensation LifeCenter Northwest offers ...

LifeCenter Northwest

Surgical First Assist

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$99K - $148K/yr

First Assist, OR RN, Surgical Physician Assistant (PA), Surgical Research experience, or experience working in travel assignments as a CST. LifeCenter Northwest offers medical, dental, vision, basic ...

LIFECENTER NORTHWEST

Surgical First Assist

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$91K - $148K/yr

First Assist, OR RN, Surgical Physician Assistant (PA), Surgical Research experience, or experience working in travel assignments as a CST. LifeCenter Northwest offers medical, dental, vision, basic ...

LifeCenter Northwest

Surgical First Assist

Bellevue, ID · On-site

$99K - $148K/yr

First Assist, OR RN, Surgical Physician Assistant (PA), Surgical Research experience, or experience working in travel assignments as a CST. LifeCenter Northwest offers medical, dental, vision, basic ...

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How much do rn surgical first assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for rn surgical first assistant in the United States is $27.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $30.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an RN Surgical First Assistant?

An RN Surgical First Assistant is a registered nurse who has received specialized education and training to assist surgeons during operative procedures. Their role includes tasks such as handling tissue, using instruments, providing exposure at the surgical site, controlling bleeding, and suturing incisions. They collaborate closely with surgeons and the surgical team to ensure patient safety and optimal outcomes. RN Surgical First Assistants are essential in both routine and complex surgeries, and their responsibilities go beyond those of a typical operating room nurse.

What are some common challenges faced by RN Surgical First Assistants during surgical procedures?

RN Surgical First Assistants often encounter challenges such as adapting to rapidly changing situations in the operating room, maintaining precise communication with surgeons and the surgical team, and managing unexpected complications during procedures. Balancing the technical demands of assisting with instruments and maintaining patient safety protocols can be intense, especially in high-acuity or emergency cases. However, strong teamwork and ongoing learning opportunities help RN First Assistants develop resilience and expertise in overcoming these challenges.

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

To thrive as an RN Surgical First Assistant, you need advanced knowledge of surgical procedures, anatomy, and patient care, along with an active RN license and completion of a recognized RNFA program. Familiarity with operating room equipment, surgical instruments, and sterile technique is essential, and certification such as CNOR or CRNFA is highly valued. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and effective communication enable seamless collaboration with surgeons and surgical teams. These skills ensure patient safety, reduce surgical complications, and contribute to efficient, successful operations.

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

AspectRn Surgical First AssistantSurgical Technologist
CredentialsRN license, Surgical First Assistant certificationPost-secondary education, Surgical Technologist certification
Work EnvironmentHospitals, surgical centers, assisting during surgeriesOperating rooms, preparing surgical instruments, assisting surgical team
Employer & Industry UsageHospitals, surgical clinics, healthcare facilitiesHospitals, outpatient surgical centers, clinics

The main difference is that Rn Surgical First Assistants are licensed registered nurses with specialized certification, actively assisting surgeons during procedures. Surgical Technologists support the surgical team by preparing instruments and maintaining sterile environments but do not perform direct patient care or assist during surgery at the same level. Both roles are vital in surgical settings but differ in scope, credentials, and responsibilities.

Is it worth it to become an RN Surgical First Assistant?

Becoming an RN Surgical First Assistant can be a valuable career step for registered nurses interested in surgical procedures, as it involves advanced skills like tissue handling and assisting during surgeries. It often requires additional certification and training, leading to higher earning potential and specialized roles in surgical teams. However, it also involves a significant time and financial investment in education and certification.
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Rn Surgical First Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rn Surgical First Assistant 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 $57,122 per year, or $27.5 per hour.

SURGICAL FIRST ASSIST - OR - Full Time - 1st Shift

Danville, KY • On-site

Ephraim McDowell Health
See more jobs at Ephraim McDowell Healthexternal

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Key responsibilities

  • Assist surgeons during surgical procedures by helping with patient positioning, visualization, retraction, hemostasis, and closure of the operative site.

  • Maintain sterile fields, coordinate patient care with other disciplines, and ensure accurate and complete patient records.

  • Participate in educational activities, collaborate with the healthcare team, and demonstrate professionalism and self-direction in the surgical environment.

Job description

Job Summary:
As a member of the perioperative healthcare team, the surgical first assistant maintains a working relationship with all members of the peri-operative healthcare team. The surgical first assistant provides assistance to the surgeons in the surgical arena. The surgical first assistant supports the surgeon during the surgical procedure by assisting in patient positioning and providing visualization/retraction during surgical procedures. The surgical first assistant also assists with hemostasis and closure of the operative site. The surgical first assistant effectively interacts with other disciplines to coordinate the patient's care while in the surgical environment. The surgical first assistant demonstrates the ability to implement a plan for specific surgical cases and is responsible with the RN for accurate and complete patient records to ensure expeditious retrieval of information. The surgical first assistant is responsible with the RN for creating/maintaining sterile fields as appropriate. The surgical first assistant must demonstrate self-direction and professionalism by identifying areas of needed skill development and participating in educational activities; using the expertise of the unit nursing staff and the supervisory staff in dealing with patient problems; participating in unit meetings; being reliable and accountable on scheduled work days. The surgical first assistant will be accountable for promoting the corporate philosophy of F.I.R.S.T. values by effectively relating with patients, their families, visitors, nursing staff members and members of other disciplines and departments. The surgical first assistant demonstrates the knowledge and skills necessary to provide care appropriate to the age of the patients served on his/her assigned unit.The surgical first assistant demonstrates the knowledge of the principles of growth and development over the lifespan and in collaboration with the RN display the ability to assess data reflective of the patient's status and interpret the appropriate information needed to identify each patient's needs relative to his/her age-specific needs. Exhibits the F.I.R.S.T. values (Friendliness, Innovation, Respect, Service, and Trust).
Working Conditions, Hazards and Physical Effort:
Works in a well-lighted, ventilated and air conditioned area. Often exposed to unpleasant odors, sights and sounds. Long periods in a stationary position and moving around the unit are required. May experience exposure to disease, infection, blood and body fluids, physical strain and/or hazardous materials. Must be able to move or position 50 lbs. independently. Will work dayshift during the weekdays with call every five to six (5-6) weeks.
Contacts with Others:
Patients, family members and significant others, physicians and Associates, other healthcare providers, administrative staff and hospital support services.
EQUIPMENT USED/SPECIAL SKILLS REQUIRED:
(See competency check list.)
Demonstrated competence in the clinical setting. Three (3) years scrub tech experience required.

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