RN First Assist - Operating Room

The RN First Assist (RNFA) supports surgeons during procedures to ensure safe operations and optimal patient outcomes. They practice perioperative nursing independently, handling assessment, intra-operative assistance, and post-operative evaluation, working closely with surgical teams but independently from circulating nurses or technologists.

The RN First Assist (RNFA) supports surgeons during procedures to ensure safe operations and optimal patient outcomes. They practice perioperative nursing independently, handling assessment, intra-operative assistance, and post-operative evaluation, working closely with surgical teams but independently from circulating nurses or technologists.

• Licensed Registered Nurse (RN) with valid licensure and certification in Illinois
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification within 30 days
• Certified Perioperative Nurse (CNOR) preferred
• Diploma in Nursing and completion of an accredited RNFA program
• At least 2+ years of perioperative nursing experience

• Assist surgeons in general and specialized surgeries, ensuring all supplies and instrumentation are prepared
• Provide patient care, administer medications, and perform surgical procedures such as suturing, controlling bleeding, and tissue handling
• Position, prepare, and monitor patients on the operating table, including vital signs and post-operative assessments
• Educate patients and families about procedures and aftercare
• Monitor surgical sites for healing or infection and participate in research activities
• Prepare supplies, assist in room turnover, and manage equipment and charges to maintain departmental efficiency

Ability to scrub and circulate as needed, strong communication skills, and the capacity to work independently within the surgical team.