Registered Nurse-First Assist

J  o  b    D  e  s  c  r  i  p  t  i  o  n

          Joy                         Care                      Competence                    Respect

Position Summary

To carry out the functions that will assist the surgeon in performing a safe operation with optimal results for the patient. The RNFA practices peri-operative nursing and is therefore responsible for independent nursing behaviors of peri-operative assessment and post-operative evaluation of care. The intra-operative practice of the RNFA is inter-department with the surgeon.

Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing is required.

Registered Nurses (RNs) who were practicing as RNFAs prior to January 1, 2020, who do not have a baccalaureate degree, are permitted to practice as RNFAs.

First Assist experience is preferred. 

Licensed Registered Nurse (RN) in state of practice is required. Wisconsin:  RNs may practice with a valid multi-state RN license as outlined in the Nurse Licensure Compact rules.

Basic Life Support (BLS) is required. 

Certified Perioperative Nurse (CNOR) certification is required for colleagues hired after April 24, 2024.

Successful completion of an RNFA program is required for colleagues hired after April 24, 2024.

In lieu of CNOR certification/RNFA program, we will accept an RN with Certified Surgical Technologist First Assist (CSTFA) certification AND at least 2 years of OR experience as a first assist, with the understanding the colleague will successfully obtain CNOR certification and enter a RNFA program within 6 months of being eligible to obtain the CNOR certification.

Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) is preferred.

Maintains excellent interpersonal communication with the health care team colleagues as well as patients.

Demonstrates the ability to work well under pressure.

Demonstrates excellent organization and priority setting skills.

Knowledge of surgical field and responsibilities as a First Assistant.

Must be detail oriented. 

Provides First Assist responsibilities as listed:  Handles and irrigates live tissues as directed by the surgeon.  Drapes the patient as directed by the surgeon. Provides and assists with sponges, hemostats, electrocautery, ligatures, suctioning to maintain hemostasis. Provides retraction support for optimal visibility. Provides hemostasis, special suctioning, tissue retraction, and tissue handling under the direct supervision of the surgeon.  Assists with or performs wound closure under the supervision of the surgeon.  Assists surgeons in holding and directing powered equipment, placing implants, drugs, drains, and catheters.  Fixes drains to skin to prevent dislodging.

Assists in the preparation of the operating room to receive the patient.

Uses principles of aseptic technique to organize and maintain the sterile field.  Assembles and handles a variety of instrumentation and equipment identified for use by the surgical team.

Assists circulating nurse and physician in continuous assessment and intervention of patient

needs.  Demonstrates excellent communication, critical thinking, diplomacy and problem solving

skills. Communicates relevant clinical information to the team to optimize patient outcomes

and goals. Communicates relevant clinical information to the physicians regarding the

patient’s condition.

Maintains an awareness of environmental hazards and calls attention to technique breaks

for immediate correction.  Reviews procedural packs and supplies to ensure sterility and recommends new equipment/supplies.

Possess the information, skill, and understanding of the work to be performed.  Actively participates in continuing education opportunities and maintains certifications, licensure as appropriate.

Reduces the risk of healthcare acquired infections through compliance with current CDC hand hygiene guidelines and facility policies including the wearing of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), if applicable.  Utilizes standard precautions during patient contact and when handling contaminated materials.  Demonstrates compliance with National Patient Safety Goals.

Complies with all standards, policies and procedures including dress code, attendance and punctuality.  Attends required in-services and meetings and completes all mandatory competencies by deadline.  Commits to keeping all patient, student or colleague information confidential and maintains excellent interpersonal communication with the health care team colleagues.

Emphasizes a holistic approach to patient care-attending to body, mind, and spirit while upholding ethical principles with patient care and all other aspects of work.  Actively involves the patient and family in decisions about care.  Promotes quality care by participating in organizational councils/committees and/or support of related process.  Documents services provided to patients in the electronic medical record in accordance with policy and requirements. 

The purpose of this job description is to provide a summary of the major responsibilities performed by colleagues in this position. Colleagues may be requested to perform tasks other than those specifically presented in this job description.  Variances in job duties performed may exist between facilities, and colleagues may perform other related duties as assigned to meet the needs of the organization.

PHYSICAL, MENTAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL REQUIREMENTS

Physical, Mental and Environmental Requirements Category:

Allied Health

Standing

X

Walking

X

Sitting

X

Lifting

X

50 lbs

Carrying

X

50 lbs

Pushing

X

50 lbs

Pulling

X

50 lbs

Climbing

X

Balancing

X

Stooping

X

Kneeling

X

Crouching

X

Crawling

X

Reaching

X

Use of Hands/Dexterity

X

Talking

X

Hearing

X

Eye/Hand/Foot Coordination

X

Extreme Cold

X

Extreme Heat

X

Humid

X

Wet

X

Noise

X

Hazards

X

Temperature Change

X

Positions in this category may experience a temperature change in his/her work environment.

Atmospheric Conditions

X

Vibration

X

Other