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Surgical First Assistant Training Program Jobs in Colorado

RN Surgical First Assistant

Fort Collins, CO · On-site

$45.05 - $69.82/hr

Completion of a nationally recognized RNFA (Registered Nurse First Assistant) program, including ... Clinical Educators support and guide individualized specialty education and training for competency ...

Completion of a nationally recognized RNFA (Registered Nurse First Assistant) program, including ... Clinical Educators support and guide individualized specialty education and training for competency ...

Completion of a nationally recognized RNFA (Registered Nurse First Assistant) program, including ... Clinical Educators support and guide individualized specialty education and training for competency ...

RN First Assistant in Aurora, CO

Aurora, CO · On-site

$74K - $122K/yr

Best Places to Work recognition, Community hospital, Cross training, Health Insurance, Level 2 ... Completion of an accredited RNFA program, including both didactic and clinical components * Minimum ...

RN First Assistant in Denver, CO

Denver, CO · On-site

$74K - $122K/yr

Best Places to Work recognition, Community hospital, Cross training, Health Insurance, Level 2 ... Completion of an accredited RNFA program, including both didactic and clinical components * Minimum ...

Showing results 21-40

Surgical First Assistant Training Program information

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.

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.

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.

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.

What are popular job titles related to Surgical First Assistant Training Program jobs in Colorado?

For Surgical First Assistant Training Program jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Surgical First Assistant Training Program jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Surgical First Assistant Training Program job openings:

Nurse Practitioner - Surgery-Vascular job available in Loveland, Colorado

WhiteCoat Locums

Loveland, CO

$250/hr

Other

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Nurse Practitioner / OR First Assist – Cardiothoracic Surgery
Location: Loveland, CO
Job Type: Locum Tenens / Full-Time
Overview:
A Level I Trauma Center is seeking an experienced NP or OR First Assist to join its Cardiac Surgery team. This role is heavily focused on cardiac surgical first assist responsibilities, including CABG, valve procedures, thoracic surgery, and endoscopic harvesting techniques.
Compensation:
Regular rate $180/hr
Nightcall $300, 24-hour call $1,500, call back $250/hour
Assignment Details:
Start: September 2026
Full-time coverage needed
Credentialing timeframe: 90–120 days
Schedule:
4 ten-hour shifts per week
One weekday night call per week
One weekend call per month
Practice Details:
Setting: Hospital / Cardiothoracic Surgery
Adult patient population only
No clinic responsibilities
Cardiac surgery coverage only (no vascular)
Level I Trauma Center
300-bed hospital
12-bed CICU
Case Volume:
Approximately 1–3 surgeries per day
Team Structure:
5 Cardiothoracic Surgeons
3 OR First Assists
6 ICU APPs
2 Floor APPs
1 Clinic APP
Responsibilities:
First assist in cardiac and thoracic surgical procedures
Endoscopic vein harvesting (EVH)
Endoscopic radial artery harvesting
Arterial line insertion/removal
Perioperative surgical support
Call coverage for cardiac surgery service
Required Procedures/Experience:
CABG (on-pump and off-pump)
EVH and endoscopic radial harvesting
Valve repair/replacement
Structural heart procedures
Aortic aneurysm repair
Thoracic surgery (open and endoscopic)
VATS/lung resections
LVAD procedures
Chest wall/pleural procedures
Esophageal/diaphragm surgery
Arterial line placement/removal
Requirements:
Board Certified – Required
OR First Assist Certification – Required
Active Colorado License – Highly Preferred
Minimum 6 months recent cardiac surgery experience – Required
Proficiency in cardiac surgery procedures – Required
Ability to insert/remove arterial lines – Required
BLS – Required
COVID vaccination – Required
NPDB within 30 days – Required
Clean background/malpractice – Highly Preferred