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Surgical First Assistant Training Program Jobs in California

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Surgical First Assistant Training Program information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a Surgical First Assistant Training Program, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Surgical First Assistant Training Program, you need a solid understanding of anatomy, surgical procedures, and sterile techniques, often backed by prior healthcare experience or certification as a surgical technologist or nurse. Familiarity with operating room instrumentation, suturing techniques, and patient safety protocols is essential, and many programs require or recommend Basic Life Support (BLS) or Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certification. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are critical soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure safe, effective support during surgeries and contribute to optimal patient outcomes in high-stakes clinical environments.

Are surgical first assistants in demand?

Surgical first assistants are in high demand due to the increasing volume of surgical procedures and the need for skilled support in operating rooms. They typically require certification and hands-on training, which contribute to their strong job prospects across healthcare facilities.

What is a Surgical First Assistant Training Program?

A Surgical First Assistant Training Program is a specialized educational course designed to prepare healthcare professionals to assist surgeons during operations. The training covers advanced surgical techniques, patient care before, during, and after surgery, as well as sterile procedures and instrumentation. Programs typically combine classroom instruction with hands-on clinical experience in the operating room. Graduates are equipped to work alongside surgeons, improving patient outcomes and supporting the surgical team. Completion of an accredited program is often required to sit for certification exams and to work as a Surgical First Assistant.

How much do surgery first assistants make?

Surgical first assistants typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and healthcare setting. Certification and specialized skills can also influence salary levels.

What is the difference between Surgical First Assistant Training Program vs Surgical Technologist Certification?

AspectSurgical First Assistant Training ProgramSurgical Technologist Certification
CredentialsTypically requires specialized training and certification as a Surgical First AssistantRequires certification as a Surgical Technologist (CST) or equivalent
Work EnvironmentAssists surgeons directly during surgeries in hospitals and surgical centersPrepares operating rooms and assists during surgeries, but does not perform direct surgical assistance
Employer & Industry UsageHospitals, surgical centers, and clinics needing surgical assistantsHospitals, outpatient surgical facilities, and clinics for surgical support staff

The Surgical First Assistant Training Program prepares individuals to assist surgeons directly during procedures, requiring specialized training and certification. In contrast, Surgical Technologist Certification focuses on preparing support staff who prepare operating rooms and assist indirectly. Both roles are vital in surgical settings but differ in responsibilities and required credentials.

How can I become a surgical first assistant?

To become a surgical first assistant, individuals typically complete a specialized training program or obtain certification through organizations like the National Surgical Assistant Association. Requirements often include a background in healthcare, such as nursing or surgical technology, along with hands-on clinical experience and passing a certification exam. Continuing education and maintaining certification are also important for career advancement.

What are some typical challenges students face during a Surgical First Assistant Training Program, and how can they prepare for them?

Students in a Surgical First Assistant Training Program often encounter challenges such as mastering complex surgical techniques, adapting to the fast-paced operating room environment, and balancing hands-on clinical practice with classroom learning. To prepare, it's helpful to develop strong time management skills, actively seek mentorship from experienced surgical staff, and engage in regular study groups to reinforce learning. Embracing a proactive attitude and being open to feedback can also make the transition smoother and enhance overall competency in the role.

Is a Csfa the same as a CFA?

A Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) is a credential for surgical assistants, while a Certified First Assistant (CFA) is a certification often associated with surgical assistants or nurses. They are different certifications, with CSFA typically awarded by the National Surgical Assistant Association and CFA by other organizations, and each has specific requirements and scope of practice related to assisting in surgical procedures.
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Surgical First Assistant Training Program jobs near you
RN First Assist Surgery

RN First Assist Surgery

Northridge Hospital Medical Center

Northridge, CA

$57.25 - $85.16/hr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago

Dignity Health rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 280 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

105th of 877 rated healthcare providers

Job description


Job Summary and Responsibilities

As our Surgical First Assist RN, you will help surgical patients across all age populations receive safe, effective, and quality patient-family centered care in the OR and other areas of perioperative services so they can achieve optimal surgical outcomes and a smooth recovery throughout the perioperative continuum.

Every day you will function as an RN First Assistant during operative and invasive procedures, including assessing patients, assisting with tissue dissection and closure, and providing postoperative follow-up. You will be expected to collaborate closely with the surgical team, maintain precise documentation, and ensure patient safety through careful management of instruments and prevention of surgical site infections.

To be successful in this role you must be committed to the delivery of safe, effective, and quality patient-family centered care for all patient populations. This requires a strong working knowledge of performance improvement, licensure, and accreditation requirements, along with active participation in fulfilling the Mission of the Organization and consistent demonstration of its Core Values. You will also possess excellent communication and organizational skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office, Outlook, and Internet, and demonstrate a strong capacity for teaching, planning, and development to support the Organization's strategic plan and performance improvement initiatives.

  • Working knowledge of performance improvement, licensure and accreditation requirements
  • Knoweldge of Microsoft Office, Outlook and Internet
  • Demonstrate good capacity for teaching, organizing, planning and development
  • Possess strong interpersonal communication and customer relation skills
  • Possess knowledge of word processing and spreadsheet applications
Job Requirements

Requirements

  • Graduate of Accredited RN school of Nursing.
  • Successful completion of an RNFA program that meets the "AORN standards for RN first assistant education programs"1 compliance with all statutes, regulations, and institutional policies relevant to RNFAs as defined by the hospital medical staff criteria
  • At least one (1) year current acute care registered nursing experience required. 
  •  Must have successful completion of an accredited/approved Nursing program.
  • Current certification in specialty area – certification in perioperative nursing (CNOR) is required.
  • Registered Nurse with current California License
  • Current and active BLS card.
  • Fire Card Required within 90 days of hire

Preferred

  • Experience with EHR (Cerner, MediTech, etc)
  • Certified Nurse Operating Room, upon hire
Where You'll Work

Founded in 1955, Dignity Health - Northridge Hospital Medical Center is a 394-bed, acute care, nonprofit hospital located. Serving over 80,000 patients annually, the hospital offers a full complement of services including a Level II Trauma Center, heart care, cancer care and women’s health. It is the only pediatric trauma center in the San Fernando Valley. 

Additionally, Northridge Hospital Medical Center has been recognized as an LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equality High Performer by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation. It is a Joint Commission-certified Thrombectomy-Capable Stroke Center and has been recognized as one of America’s 50 Best Hospitals by Healthgrades in 2026.

One Community. One Mission. One California 


Pay Range
$57.25 - $85.16 /hour

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About Dignity Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

We welcome the chance to help you feel your best. Excellent, affordable health care, delivered with compassion, is what we stand for. Since our founding in 1986, we've made it our goal to create environments that meet each patient's physical, mental, and spiritual needs. We also believe this healing philosophy promotes the wellbeing of our staff and the places they serve. Dignity Health is made up of more than 60,000 caregivers and staff who deliver excellent care to diverse communities in 21 states. Headquartered in San Francisco, Dignity Health is the fifth largest health system in the nation and the largest hospital provider in California. Through teamwork and innovation, faith and compassion, advocacy and action, we endeavor every day to keep you happy, healthy, and whole.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Francisco, CA, US

Year founded

1986

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