Surgical First Assistant (RNFA)

Surgical First Assistant (RNFA)

Location: Chicago, Illinois (Onsite) Job Type: Full-Time Positions: 1 Experience Required: 4 – 15 Years

Shift Details

• Day Shift: 6:30/7:00 AM Start (Monday – Friday) • On-call rotation required • 40 Hours per Week

The Surgical First Assistant (RNFA) plays a critical role in supporting surgeons during operative procedures by performing advanced technical and clinical functions. This position provides comprehensive preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative care to ensure optimal surgical outcomes, patient safety, and procedural efficiency. The RNFA collaborates closely with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and perioperative teams while maintaining strict adherence to sterile techniques and surgical protocols.

Key Responsibilities

Pre-Operative Care

• Conduct patient assessments including history and physical evaluation • Provide pre-surgical education to patients and families • Prepare and position patients for surgical procedures • Ensure proper surgical site preparation and sterile setup

Intra-Operative Support (RN First Assistant)

• Provide surgical exposure using retractors, suction, and instruments • Achieve hemostasis using clamping, ligation, and electrocautery • Assist in tissue handling, dissection, and suturing (fascia, skin, etc.) • Place drains as directed by the surgeon • Maintain sterile field and follow aseptic techniques • Assist in complex procedures including cardiothoracic, orthopedic, and vascular surgeries • Participate in instrument, sponge, and safety counts

Post-Operative Care

• Apply and manage surgical dressings • Monitor patients for complications and provide post-op education • Support smooth transition of care post-surgery • Document perioperative care in EMR systems

Collaboration & Leadership

• Collaborate with surgeons, nurses, and perioperative teams • Provide leadership and mentorship within the operating room • Participate in quality improvement initiatives and training programs • Maintain compliance with surgical standards and best practices

Must-Have Qualifications

• Active RN License – Illinois (Required) • Completion of accredited RNFA Program (Required) • BLS Certification (Required) • CNOR Certification (Required or must obtain shortly after hire) • Minimum 2–4 years of OR experience (scrub/circulating RN) • Minimum 1–3 years of experience as RN First Assistant • Strong knowledge of surgical procedures and sterile techniques

Preferred Qualifications

• BSN Degree • ACLS Certification • CRNFA Certification (preferred within 2 years) • Experience in multiple specialties (cardiothoracic, orthopedic, vascular, robotics) • Experience with EMR systems (Cerner, SurgiNet, Meditech)

Core Competencies

• Advanced surgical assisting skills • Strong clinical judgment and precision • Team collaboration and leadership • Ability to work in high-pressure surgical environments • Patient-centered care

Work Environment

• Operating Room (OR) • Acute care hospital setting • Requires prolonged standing and physical stamina • Exposure to surgical and biological hazards

Additional Requirements

• COVID-19 vaccination (subject to exemptions) • Must be open to full-time permanent role • Must be open to onsite work in Chicago, IL • Ability to participate in on-call rotations

Interview Process

• 2-Step Interview: o Phone Screening o Hiring Manager Interview