Registered Nurse First Assistant (RNFA)

Position Overview

The Registered Nurse First Assistant (RNFA) is a highly specialized RN who collaborates with surgeons and the healthcare team to ensure safe and optimal patient outcomes during operations. This role requires extensive knowledge and skill in perioperative nursing practices and mandates a commitment to delivering high-quality patient care in the operating room setting.

Job Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the surgical team during operative procedures to support safe and effective operations.
• Perform the duties of an operating room staff nurse when not engaged in RNFA responsibilities.
• Practice within the scope of perioperative nursing, applying necessary skills and judgment in the operating room.
• Assist in preparing and maintaining the surgical environment, ensuring all instruments and equipment are sterile and ready for use.
• Act in accordance with the surgeon’s directives during the operative phase of patient care.

Work Schedule

This position is available for 36 or 48 hours per week, with shifts generally scheduled Monday through Friday during the daytime. There will be evening call responsibilities until 11 PM, as needed by the unit. Please note that weekends and holidays will not be required, aside from rotating holiday requirements.

Qualifications

• Current New York State RN License required.
• Completion of an accredited RN First Assistant program.
• CNOR certification required.
• Minimum of two years of experience in a surgical or trauma operating room setting is preferred.
• Robotic surgery experience is highly recommended, including but not limited to:
• Robotic Urology
• Robotic GYN
• Robotic Colorectal
• Robotic Surgical Oncology (e.g., Whipple procedures, gastrectomies, hernia repairs)
• Robotic Thoracic surgery
• Robotic General Surgery (e.g., gallbladders, appendectomies)
• Proficiency in both scrubbing and circulating during surgeries is preferred.
• BLS certification from the American Heart Association is required; ACLS certification is preferred.

Skills and Competencies

• In-depth knowledge of perioperative nursing practices.
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities.
• Ability to respond promptly and effectively in high-stress environments.