RN First Assistant, General Surgery OR
Peoria, IL
Magnet Medical
5x8 hrs, Days

The Registered Nurse First Assistant (RNFA) is a highly skilled nurse who works closely with the surgical team during procedures, providing direct assistance to the surgeon and ensuring the safe and effective execution of surgery. The RNFA plays an essential role in the perioperative setting by performing surgical tasks, such as handling tissue, assisting with wound closure, and ensuring a sterile environment. This role requires advanced nursing knowledge, surgical expertise, and critical thinking, often acting as a vital member of the surgical team.

Key Responsibilities:

• Surgical Assistance:

  • Assist the surgeon during procedures by performing tasks such as tissue manipulation, suturing, and controlling bleeding.
  • Maintain a sterile field by ensuring proper sterile technique and assisting with the application of drapes, surgical instruments, and sutures.
  • Provide exposure of the surgical area through retraction, suction, and other necessary interventions.
  • Close incisions, perform wound care, and apply dressings as directed by the surgeon.

• Preoperative Responsibilities:

  • Conduct preoperative assessments of patients, ensuring that all necessary consents and documentation are completed.
  • Review patient medical history, lab results, and surgical plans to anticipate needs and prepare for surgery.
  • Provide patient education about the surgical process, expected outcomes, and recovery.

• Intraoperative Duties:

  • Collaborate with the surgeon and other members of the surgical team to monitor patient status, including vital signs, anesthesia levels, and sterile technique.
  • Assist in positioning patients appropriately on the operating table to ensure optimal access and safety during surgery.
  • Operate and manage surgical instruments and equipment, ensuring all tools are sterile, functional, and readily available.

• Postoperative Care:

  • Assist in the immediate postoperative period, monitoring for complications and ensuring patient comfort as they recover from anesthesia.
  • Provide wound care instructions, monitor for signs of infection, and assist with patient recovery.

• Collaboration and Communication:

  • Work closely with the surgical team, including surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other RNs, to coordinate patient care before, during, and after surgery.
  • Communicate with patients and families to provide updates on the surgery and postoperative care instructions.

• Documentation and Record Keeping:

  • Document surgical procedures, patient conditions, and other relevant data accurately in the electronic health record (EHR).
  • Ensure proper documentation of surgical counts (instruments, sponges, etc.) and any complications or unexpected events during surgery.

• Sterile Technique and Infection Control:

  • Maintain strict adherence to infection control protocols, ensuring a sterile environment throughout the surgical procedure.
  • Ensure proper disposal of surgical waste and instruments according to safety guidelines.

• Patient Education:

  • Provide preoperative and postoperative education to patients and families regarding recovery, pain management, potential complications, and follow-up care.
  • Support patients in understanding their surgical procedure, helping reduce anxiety and ensuring informed consent.

• Professional Development:

  • Stay current on best practices in surgical nursing, new technologies, and surgical techniques.
  • Attend training, workshops, and conferences to enhance surgical nursing skills and maintain RNFA certification.