Blog

Career guides, salary data, and expert resources for RN First Assistants — from certification and training to landing your next staff or travel RNFA position.

regulations scope of practice state licensing travel nursing RNFA

RNFA Scope of Practice by State: What You Need to Know

Your RNFA scope of practice isn't the same everywhere. Learn how state Boards of Nursing regulate RN First Assistants differently and what that means for your career.

Read more →
job market RNFA salary states travel nursing CVOR

Top States for RNFA Jobs by Pay and Demand in 2026

Which states have the most RNFA jobs and the best pay? A state-by-state look at salary ranges, surgical volume, cost of living, and where the opportunities are strongest.

Read more →
career advice negotiation salary contracts travel nursing RNFA

How to Negotiate Your RNFA Contract or Job Offer

RNFAs have more negotiating power than they realize. Here's how to negotiate your staff offer or travel contract — from base pay and sign-on bonuses to call pay and schedule.

Read more →
career insights RNFA day in the life operating room surgical nursing

A Day in the Life of an RNFA: What the Job Is Really Like

Job descriptions tell you the requirements. This tells you what the day actually feels like — from the 5:45 AM alarm to the last suture.

Read more →
education RNFA programs training AORN certification

Best RNFA Programs in 2026: Where to Get Your Training

Comparing RNFA programs? Here's what to look for — from clinical hour requirements and preceptor support to format, cost, and the questions you should ask before enrolling.

Read more →
certification CRNFA CNOR CCI education RNFA

CRNFA vs. CNOR: Which Certification Do You Need?

CNOR and CRNFA are both essential perioperative certifications — but they serve different purposes. Here's what each one requires and why most RNFAs need both.

Read more →
travel nursing RNFA contracts staffing agencies compensation

RNFA Travel Nursing: What to Know Before Your First Contract

Considering travel nursing as an RNFA? Here's what to expect — from weekly pay packages and 13-week contracts to choosing an agency and managing logistics.

Read more →
career guide RNFA surgical first assistant PA CSA comparison

RNFA vs. Surgical First Assistant vs. PA First Assist: What's the Difference?

A clear breakdown of how RNFAs, CSAs, PAs, and NPs compare as surgical first assistants — covering education, scope of practice, pay, and career paths.

Read more →
salary compensation travel nursing CVOR RNFA

RNFA Salary Guide 2026: What RN First Assistants Actually Earn

Real salary data for staff and travel RNFAs, broken down by state, specialty, and certification — including CVOR premiums and weekly travel contract rates.

Read more →
career guide RNFA certification education CNOR CRNFA

How to Become an RNFA in 2026 | Step-by-Step Career Guide

Everything you need to know about becoming a Registered Nurse First Assistant — from BSN and CNOR requirements to RNFA programs, CRNFA certification, and realistic timelines.

Read more →