Registered Nurse First Assistant (RNFA) - Cardiac Surgery

Job Summary

The RNFA-Cardiac functions interdependently with the surgeon and applies in-depth knowledge, expert skill, and clinical judgment in assisting the surgeon with performing complex surgical procedures. The professional nurse provides evidence-based nursing care utilizing the nursing process to meet the surgical needs of the patient in the perioperative setting. The RNFA is responsible for appropriately delegating tasks to other licensed/unlicensed health care team members as deemed appropriate by training and education. The RNFA-Cardiac collaborates with multidisciplinary healthcare team members when providing nursing care.

Qualifications

• Education, Credentials, Licenses:
  • Graduate of an accredited school of nursing.
  • If eligible, must have a Compact (multi-state) License in their primary state of residence.
  • CURRENT registration to practice nursing in the state where work is being performed.
  • Mets contact hour requirements for licensure, including all state-required courses.
  • Successful completion of RNFA program and internship that meets AORN’s Standards for RN First Assistant Programs criteria.
  • Basic Cardiac Life Support (BCLS) required.
  • CNOR (Certified Perioperative Nurse) required and maintained as current status.
• Specialized Knowledge:
  • Expert knowledge of anatomy and physiology, surgical procedures and instrumentation, and operative techniques specific to cardiac procedures.
  • Knowledge of suture, suturing techniques and wound closure.
  • Knowledge of tissue dissection and exposure.
  • Knowledgeable regarding clamping blood vessels, coagulating bleeding points, ligation of vessels, saphenectomy procedures, and placement of drains.
  • Knowledge of various cannulation and decannulation techniques.
  • Knowledge of intra-aortic balloon pump and ventricular assist device insertion techniques.
• Competency:
  • Competent in mathematical calculations associated with medication administration.
• Experience:
  • Two years of operating room experience in both the scrub and circulating roles as an RN.

Benefits

We invest in you — personally and professionally. Enjoy Competitive pay and comprehensive health coverage within the first 30 days. Generous paid time off and flexible work schedules. Retirement savings with employer match. Tuition reimbursement and professional development opportunities. Wellness, mental health, and recognition programs. Career advancement through mentorship and internal mobility.