Cardiac Surgery First Assist PA — Lead OR Support

MedStar Health; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 115,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

MedStar Health in Washington, DC seeks a qualified Physician Assistant or ACNP as a first assistant in cardiac surgery. The role supports preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative care, including complex cases such as bypass grafting and valve repair, with emphasis on patient stability and high-quality outcomes.

Minimum 2 years of OR experience; 5 years cardiac surgery care preferred. RN First Assist certification required for NPs; accreditation and licensure in DC are essential.

Qualifications

• Graduate from an accredited PA/ACNP program.
• RN First Assist required for nurse practitioners.
• 2 years of OR experience required; 5 years cardiac surgery care preferred.

Responsibilities

• Assist in preoperative planning and intraoperative care for cardiac procedures.
• Recognize and respond to arrhythmias and hemodynamic changes in OR/ICU.
• Open sternotomy and arterial/venous cannulation as first assistant.
• Assist with bypass grafts, valve repair/replacement, and other complex procedures.
• Place pacing wires and drains; close sternotomy; mentor staff.

Skills

First assist

Cardiac surgery

OR experience

Mentoring

Education

PA or ACNP degree

RN First Assist certification

Job description

MedStar Health in Washington, DC seeks a qualified Physician Assistant or ACNP as a first assistant in cardiac surgery. The role supports preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative care, including complex cases such as bypass grafting and valve repair, with emphasis on patient stability and high-quality outcomes.

Minimum 2 years of OR experience; 5 years cardiac surgery care preferred. RN First Assist certification required for NPs; accreditation and licensure in DC are essential.