Certified First Assistant | PRN

Description of Position

The primary purpose of the First Assistant is to work under the direction of the Surgeon and in collaboration with the Coordinator and team in accordance with hospital policy and appropriate laws and regulations. Assisting to provide a safe operation with optimal patient outcomes. Supervision: reports directly to the Nurse Manager and/or Charge Nurse.

Responsibilities and Duties

• Maintain positive working relationships with patients, families, and coworkers inter‑ and intra‑departmentally.
• Perform all surgical skills as a first and/or second assistant in surgical procedures.
• Provide circulating, scrubbing, and other duties assigned within licensed scope of practice in addition to first‑assistant responsibilities.
• Provide surgical site exposure, handling and/or cutting of tissues, and ensure hemostasis.
• Demonstrate understanding of suture types, skin types, and closure of all incisions.
• Serve as a mentor, preceptor, and assist in training others for team development.
• Maintain professional communication skills with physicians, nurses, and technicians.
• Act as a compassionate, non‑judgmental patient caregiver and advocate.
• Possess active listening skills and incorporate a healthy workforce in daily practice.
• Be on call as required for this position.
• Assist the Surgical Technician with setting up the operating room prior to surgery.
• Assist the team with checking surgical machines and equipment.
• Pass instruments to surgeons during surgery.
• Assist with moving the patient to the operating room and positioning them on the operating table.

Education and Work Experience

• Successful completion of an accredited Surgical First Assistant program (RNFA, CFA, or CSA).
• BLS certification required; ACLS preferred.
• Clear and succinct verbal and written communication skills.
• High level of patience and tenacity; rapid problem identification and resolution.
• Emotional stability and maturity; adaptability to change, decisiveness, and foresight.
• Organizational and leadership ability.

Physical Demands / Work Environment

• Moderate amount of lifting and positioning of patients and equipment.
• Ability to walk frequently and stand or sit for prolonged periods.
• Ability to see objects closely and hear normal sounds with some background noise.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Workplace Culture

“Experience Memorial” is more than a slogan—it reflects the care we provide our patients and our commitment to the community and team members. As a nationally certified Great Place to Work, Lake Charles Memorial Health System offers an organizational culture that supports exceptional patient care, employee well‑being, and professional growth. Join a team where contributions are valued, growth is nurtured, and success is celebrated.