RN, Certified First Assistant

City of Hope•Newnan, GA

About The Position

The RNFA (Registered Nurse First Assist) is a professional caregiver who provides patient-focused health care and assists the surgeon with exposure, hemostasis, and other technical functions to support safe operations and optimal patient outcomes. The role varies by operation and specialty. The RNFA uses the nursing process, communication skills, problem-solving techniques, and technical knowledge to operate relevant mechanical devices. The caregiver directs patient care in collaboration with patients, families, and other health care professionals, and provides leadership to non-licensed staff by modeling excellence. When not serving as RNFA, the caregiver functions as an RN in the surgery department; this role also includes the responsibilities described in the Registered Nurse Surgical Services job description. The successful candidate serves as a Surgical First Assist, applying knowledge of surgical anatomy, physiology, and operative techniques. They support patient positioning, preparation, and sterile draping; provide intraoperative assistance; and perform or assist with wound closure and related tasks. They also assess patients, develop and evaluate individualized nursing care plans, maintain a safe surgical environment, educate patients and families, coordinate supplies and equipment, collaborate with care teams, administer and document care, and contribute to teamwork and performance improvement. Care is to be compassionate and patient-centered, aligned with City of Hope’s mission, values, and service standards.

Requirements

BSN required, or enrollment in a BSN program within 6 months of hire; the BSN must be completed within 3 years of hire.
Current Georgia Registered Nurse License or a Registered Nurse License from a Compact State.
Minimum 3 years of diversified Operating Room (OR) experience.
Proficient in perioperative nursing practice as both a Scrub Nurse and Circulating Nurse.
Completion of an accredited Registered Nurse First Assistant (RNFA) program required.
Current BLS and ACLS certification required; AHA certifications must be obtained within 30 days of hire.

Nice To Haves

CNOR certification preferred.

Responsibilities

Serve as a Surgical First Assist, applying knowledge of surgical anatomy, physiology, and operative techniques during procedures.
Assist with patient positioning, preparation, and sterile draping.
Provide surgical support including wound exposure, tissue handling, retraction, suctioning, sponging, and hemostasis.
Perform suturing, wound closure, dressing application, and drain management; assist with postoperative local anesthetic administration as directed.
Assess patient health status and develop, implement, and evaluate individualized nursing care plans.
Monitor and maintain a safe, efficient surgical environment to support optimal patient outcomes.
Educate patients and families regarding treatment plans, disease processes, and health promotion.
Coordinate supplies, equipment, and multidisciplinary team activities to ensure efficient intraoperative workflow.
Communicate patient status changes and collaborate with physicians and care teams to adjust treatment plans as needed.
Administer medications and treatments safely, document care provided, and ensure compliance with regulatory and organizational standards.
Promote teamwork, professional collaboration, and continuous performance improvement initiatives.
Deliver compassionate, patient-centered care aligned with City of Hope's mission, values, and service standards.
Direct patient care through the nursing process and collaboration with patients, families, and other health care professionals.
Provide leadership to non-licensed staff by setting an example of excellence.
When not acting as RNFA, function as an RN in the surgery department.