First Assist Nurse Career Guide

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Overview

A First Assist Registered Nurse (RN) is a specialized healthcare professional who plays a critical role in the operating room, assisting surgeons during surgical procedures. These skilled nurses provide essential support, contribute to patient safety and ensure seamless surgical procedures.

Essential Job Functions:

First Assist RNs work alongside surgeons to provide direct assistance during surgical procedures. They help with tasks

Education

To pursue a career as a First Assist RN, individuals typically need to complete a nursing education program and become a licensed RN. Subsequently, aspiring First Assist RNs should complete a formal training program that includes classroom instruction and supervised clinical experience in surgical settings.

A stethoscope held in one hand

Related certifications

To excel in this role, First Assist RNs require advanced knowledge of surgical procedures, anatomy and patient care. They often pursue additional certification as a Certified Registered Nurse First Assistant (CRNFA) to demonstrate their expertise. Prior experience in an operating room or surgical setting is highly beneficial.

State licenses process and requirements

All 50 states require state licensure to become a professional nurse. Review the step-by-step process to obtain or renew your RN license in each one.
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A stethoscope held in one hand

Skills

Becoming a successful Staff or Travel First Assist RN demands a unique skill set. These nurses should possess strong critical thinking abilities, excellent communication skills and the capacity to work well under pressure. Proficiency in surgical techniques, wound care and infection control is crucial for ensuring patient safety.

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Responsibilities

First Assist RNs have a multifaceted role that encompasses pre-operative, intra-operative and post-operative responsibilities. They collaborate closely with surgeons and other healthcare professionals to optimize patient outcomes. First Assist RNs also contribute to patient education, care planning and post-operative monitoring.

Salary Insights

Compare your pay with the most up-to-date job market data using our comprehensive salary calculator.
First Assist Nurse
$2,106-3,881/week

The average salary for a First Assist Nurse is $3,059.35 per week.

Last updated on December 10, 2024. Based on active jobs on Vivian.com.

Pros & Cons

Becoming a First Assist RN offers numerous advantages. These nurses play an instrumental role in surgical procedures, witnessing the immediate impact of their contributions to patient care. They enjoy a high level of job satisfaction and often receive competitive compensation. The role also provides opportunities for professional growth and specialization.

However, there are challenges associated with this specialty. First Assist RNs

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First Assist Nurse Jobs


View job details for Travel Nurse RN - First Assist
Travel Contract

Travel Nurse RN - First Assist

  • Bakersfield, CA
  • PHP
  • 3x12 hrs, Days

$4,528/week

Estimated pay package
View job details for Travel Nurse RN - First Assist
Travel Contract

Travel Nurse RN - First Assist

  • Bakersfield, CA
  • Summit Medical Staffing Nursing
  • 4x10 hrs, Days
  • Referral Bonus

$4,499/week

Estimated pay package
Posted 1 day ago
View job details for Travel Nurse RN - First Assist
Travel Contract

Travel Nurse RN - First Assist

  • Bakersfield, CA
  • Ardor Health Solutions
  • 5x8 hrs, Days
  • Referral Bonus

$4,433/week

Estimated pay package
 Verified
View job details for Travel Nurse RN - First Assist
Travel Contract

Travel Nurse RN - First Assist

  • Bakersfield, CA
  • MedPro Healthcare Staffing
  • 5x8 hrs, Days
  • Referral Bonus

$4,406/week

Estimated pay package

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