First Assistant (RNFA)

Registered Nurse – First Assistant (RNFA)
Location: Chicago, IL
Schedule: Full-Time | Monday – Friday | Day Shift (Start: 6:30/7:00 AM) | On-Call Rotation May Be Required

Are you a skilled Registered Nurse First Assistant (RNFA) looking to make a real impact in a mission-driven surgical environment? Join a compassionate and collaborative healthcare team that is committed to providing exceptional care to a diverse and dynamic community in Chicago.

About the Role:

The RNFA will support surgeons during procedures and ensure the highest standard of care across preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative phases. This role is hands-on, fast-paced, and offers the opportunity to work across a variety of surgical specialties in a full-service community hospital setting.

Key Responsibilities:

Preoperative:

• Conduct patient assessments and health histories

• Educate patients and families on surgical procedures

• Assist with positioning, prepping, and draping the patient

Intraoperative:

• Provide exposure using retractors, suction, and sponges

• Achieve hemostasis and assist with tissue handling and dissection

• Perform suture closures and place drains under surgeon direction

• Maintain strict aseptic technique and support safety protocols

Postoperative:

• Apply and manage surgical dressings

• Monitor patients for complications and deliver discharge education

• Ensure a smooth transition of care and complete accurate documentation

Teamwork & Leadership:

• Collaborate with the full surgical team including anesthesia and perioperative staff

• Lead by example, uphold standards of care, and mentor junior staff

• Participate in ongoing quality improvement and staff development

Qualifications – Required:

• Active Illinois RN License

• Graduate of an accredited RNFA program (didactic & clinical per AORN)

• Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification

• At least 2 years of Operating Room (OR) experience as scrub or circulating RN

• Eligibility to work in the U.S. (U.S. Citizen or Green Card holder)

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

• RNFA Certification (CRNFA) – required within 2 years of hire

• Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) certification

• Experience in cardiothoracic, orthopedics, or robotic-assisted surgery

• Familiarity with EMRs such as Cerner, Meditech, SurgiNet

Benefits:

• 401(k) with 4% employer match

• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance

• Paid Time Off (PTO)

• Life Insurance

• Supportive and inclusive work culture

Interview Process:

1. Phone Screening

2. Interview with Hiring Manager

Work Setting:

• Physical: Operating Room

• Requires standing for extended periods, lifting/patient positioning (~35 lbs), and maintaining sterile technique

• Exposure to blood and bodily fluids