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Surgical First Assistant Training Program Jobs in Virginia

UVA Health

Senior Surgical First Assist

Manassas, VA

$31.49 - $50.14/hr

Graduate of a recognized First Assist program with National Certification or RN required. Or, if a ... Minimum of 2 years of experience assisting - Preferred Refer to the Life Support Training Policy ...

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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 Virginia?

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

What job categories do people searching Surgical First Assistant Training Program jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Surgical First Assistant Training Program jobs in Virginia are:

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

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

Surgical First Assistant Training Program jobs near you
Infographic showing various Surgical First Assistant Training Program job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Surgical First Assistant - as needed

Riverside

Nassawadox, VA • On-site

$38.60 - $53.08/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Onancock, Virginia

Hiring Range

$38.60 - $53.08/Hourly Actual pay is determined based on job-related factors such as relevant experience, education, credentials, skills, internal equity, and business needs.

Qualifications

  • Graduate of an accredited Surgical Assistant Program or equivalent. (Required)
  • Previous OR experience as Surgical Assistant of two years preferred.
  • Prior experience as surgical tech or surgical nurse highly desired.
  • Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) - National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) preferred.
  • CPR/BLS Certification - American Heart Association/American Red Cross/American Safety and Health Institute (AHA/ARC) (Required)


Overview
Works under the supervision of the Surgeon and the Nurse Manager. Serves as first or second assistant on surgical cases in which demonstrated competency has been validated. Performs under the direction of the surgeon to provide technical assistance as required by the type of procedure being performed based on skills validated. Takes an active role in patient preparation and readiness, assists with the surgical suite room turnaround, equipment management, and has knowledge of special soft equipment specific to each surgical specialty. Stays current on service nuances, attends surgical updates and is vigilant in all efforts towards sound infection control practices. Must be able to demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to provide care appropriate to age of the patient served. Assists the surgical team in room preparation, sterilization of equipment, gathering supplies and room turnaround.
What you will do

  • The team member works under the supervision of the perioperative registered nurse and assists the physician with all aspects of care during the operative procedure.
  • Collaborates with physicians to provide for the specialized needs of the surgical patient. Builds trusting collaborative relationship with surgeons to ensure optimal outcomes. Anticipates supply equipment needs in advance so that arrangements can be made in a timely and cost effective manner.
  • Monitor/supports personal departmental productivity through volunteering for and recommending creative changes to include flexing and shift changes to meet the needs of the department.
  • Demonstrates advanced proficiency and good problem solving skills and serves as a clinical resource to support and develop peers and assist the surgeon technically.
  • Recommends and participates in supply utilization changes that support cost containment. Participates and provides feedback in new equipment/product evaluations; identifies and recommends solutions for cost savings and waste reduction.
  • Demonstrates an understanding of how to identify and report suspected noncompliance or violations to the Quality Management System.
  • Responsible for following safe practices as referenced in the National Patient Safety Goals, and following policy & procedures, as well as guidelines outlined in AORN, CMS, and DNV. Identifies opportunities and follows through to continuously improve service and patient care outcomes in accordance with patient safety standards, standards of excellence and RHS Code of Ethics. Capable of recognizing emergency situations and responds competently.
  • Demonstrates knowledge of surgical case preparation and application of first assistant standards of practice in regard to understanding normal anatomy and physiology and related pathological changes and how to provide technical assistance to the surgeon in 6 out 10 specialty areas with the exception of cardiac. Capable of recognizing limitations and risks related to each surgical assistant experience. Responsible for safe practices and for individualizing care that support expected patient outcomes. Meets physician expectations as surgical first assistant by anticipating needs, retracts, protects, sutures, controls bleeding, suctions and handles tissue skillfully.
  • Participates positively in training and support of all team members, volunteers and students.
  • Actively supports and assists the perioperative registered nurse and team in the care of the patients. Demonstrates responsibility for accurate handling/management of specimens and surgical count. Demonstrates a sense of urgency to facilitate positive customer throughout the department/facility. Addresses customers' needs regardless of assignment.

To learn more about being a team member with Riverside Health System visit us at https://www.riversideonline.com/careers.

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