First Assist

The First Assist provides intraoperative surgical assistance to the surgeon during surgical procedures. This role supports the surgical team in ensuring safe, efficient, and high-quality patient care by assisting with exposure, hemostasis, tissue handling, suturing, and other technical surgical tasks. The First Assist works closely with surgeons, anesthesiology staff, circulating nurses, and surgical technologists to ensure optimal surgical outcomes.

This position has full-time and/or part-time availability.

• Provide direct intraoperative assistance to the surgeon during surgery.
• Assist with exposure, retraction, suctioning, and maintaining a clear surgical field.
• Perform suturing, ligation, cauterization, and closure of surgical incisions as directed by the surgeon.
• Assist with placement of surgical implants, instrumentation, and specialized equipment.
• Provide retraction when necessary. Manage tissue and implant handling during procedures.
• Anticipate surgeon needs and ensure appropriate instruments and supplies are available.

• Participate in preoperative patient preparation and positioning.
• Review surgical plans and preference cards to ensure readiness for procedures.
• Ensure all surgical equipment and instruments are available and functioning properly.

• Assist with wound closure and dressing application.
• Participate in patient transfer if needed.

• Maintain strict adherence to sterile techniques and infection control standards.
• Follow all facility policies, regulatory requirements, and safety protocols.
• Ensure compliance with operating room standards and documentation requirements.

• Work collaboratively with surgeons, operating room nurses, anesthesia staff, and surgical technologists.
• Participate in quality improvement initiatives and patient safety programs.
• Provide support and mentorship to surgical staff when needed.

One of the following is required:

• Completion of an accredited Surgical First Assistant (SFA) program.
• Registered Nurse First Assistant (RNFA).
• Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) with First Assist certification.

Preferred certifications may include:

• CSFA
  - Certified Surgical First Assistant.
• CRNFA
  - Certified Registered Nurse First Assistant.
• Current BLS and/or ACLS certification.

• Minimum 2 years of surgical assisting experience preferred.
• Experience with spine procedures, orthopedics and total joint replacements strongly preferred.

• Strong knowledge of surgical anatomy and sterile technique.
• Ability to anticipate surgeon needs during complex procedures.
• Excellent teamwork and communication skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced operating room environment.
• Strong attention to detail and patient safety.

• Operating room or outpatient surgical center setting.
• Prolonged standing and physical activity during surgical procedures.
• Exposure to surgical equipment, bodily fluids, and sterile environments.