Surgical First Assist (Physician Assistant/RNFA)

About This Role

Collaborate with surgeons and the healthcare team to ensure optimal outcomes for patients during surgical procedures. Practice under the direction of the surgeon, applying advanced clinical skills and knowledge specific to the role of a Surgical First Assist.

Responsibilities

• Work in collaboration with the surgeon and healthcare team members to achieve optimal patient outcomes.
• Practice intraoperatively under the direction and guidance of the surgeon, not concurrently as a scrub nurse.
• Refuse to perform any delegated act not within the parameters of the defined role and licensure.
• Provide safe, therapeutic care by collaborating with surgeons and healthcare team for optimal patient outcomes.
• Communicate effectively and work cooperatively with others, demonstrating respect for clinical disciplines.
• Delegate patient care activities to other healthcare team members.
• Assist with room set-up, opening supplies, and room turn-over.
• Assist with patient positioning and safe transport of patients to the PACU.
• Educate and train staff as needed, acting as a preceptor.
• Ensure improvements in practice settings through self-development and life-long learning.

Requirements

• Minimum of 1 year experience in surgical first assisting
• Advanced knowledge of anatomy, physiology, surgical interventions, techniques, and hazards.
• Advanced knowledge and skill in handling surgical instrumentation and aiding in surgical procedures.
• Analytical ability for pre-operative and post-operative patient assessment.
• Ability to perform effectively in stressful and emergency situations.
• Current registration with the Maryland State Board of Examiners of Nurses as a Registered Nurse OR Licensed as a Physician Assistant by the Maryland Board of Physicians
• Healthcare Provider (CPR Certification)

Qualifications

• Successful Completion of Physician assistant program or an accredited course in RNFA first assisting program that meets the ‘AORN standards’
• Minimum of 1 year experience, with 2-3 years preferred.

Nice to Have

• ACLS certification
• CRNFA certification (if RNFA)

Certifications