Surgical First Assistant Career Guide

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Overview

A Surgical First Assistant (SFA) is a highly skilled healthcare professional who works alongside surgeons in the operating room, playing a critical role in ensuring safe and successful surgical procedures. SFAs provide vital assistance before, during and after surgeries, enhancing patient outcomes and maintaining a sterile surgical environment.

Essential Job Functions:

SFAs have diverse responsibilities, including prepping and draping patients,

Education

To become a Surgical First Assistant, you typically need to be a licensed Registered Nurse (RN), Certified Surgical Technologist (CST), or Physician Assistant (PA) with specialized training in surgical assisting. Educational pathways can include associate or bachelor's degrees in nursing or surgical technology, as well as PA programs.

Qualifications

A stethoscope held in one hand

Related certifications

Surgical First Assistants must meet specific qualifications, which often include completing an accredited surgical assisting program, obtaining certification such as Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) through organizations like the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) and gaining hands-on clinical experience.

Skills

Staff and Travel SFAs require a wide range of skills, including a deep understanding of surgical procedures, proficiency in surgical instrumentation, strong communication skills and the ability to remain composed under pressure. Attention to detail, teamwork and a commitment to patient safety are essential attributes.

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Responsibilities

The primary responsibility of an SFA is to provide skilled assistance to the surgeon during surgery. This involves preparing the operating room, positioning and prepping the patient, handling surgical instruments, suturing wounds and ensuring sterile conditions are maintained.

Salary Insights

Compare your pay with the most up-to-date job market data using our comprehensive salary calculator.
Surgical First Assistant
$1,852-3,155/week

The average salary for a Surgical First Assistant is $2,440.53 per week.

Last updated on April 27, 2024. Based on active jobs on Vivian.com.

Pros & Cons

Becoming a Surgical First Assistant offers numerous benefits. It allows you to actively participate in life-changing surgeries, work closely with surgical teams and contribute to improved patient outcomes. SFAs often enjoy a high level of job satisfaction and competitive compensation.

However, the role comes with challenges, including long hours in the operating room, exposure to stressful situations, and physically demanding work.

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Surgical First Assistant Jobs


View job details for Travel Surgical First Assistant
Travel Contract

Travel Surgical First Assistant

  • Wausau, WI
  • Planet Healthcare
  • 5x8 hrs, Days
  • Referral Bonus

$3,220/week

Posted 8 days ago
 Verified
View job details for Travel Surgical First Assistant
Travel Contract

Travel Surgical First Assistant

  • Midland, MI
  • PHP
  • 4x10 hrs, Days

$3,041/week

Posted 3 days ago
View job details for Travel Surgical First Assistant
Travel Contract

Travel Surgical First Assistant

  • Williamsburg, VA
  • Healthcare Support
  • 5x8 hrs, Nights

$2,887/week

Posted 9 days ago
View job details for Travel Surgical First Assistant
Travel Contract

Travel Surgical First Assistant

  • Wausau, WI
  • PRN Healthcare
  • 5x8 hrs, Days
  • Referral Bonus

$2,620/week

Posted 9 days ago

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