RN First Assist: Perioperative Surgical Partner

Carle Health; Albuquerque (NM); On-site; USD 63,000 - 105,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive benefits package

Equal Opportunity Employer

Job summary

Carle Health is seeking an RN First Assist to support surgeons in general and specialized operations. The RNFA will perform perioperative assessment, assist with intraoperative tasks, and post‑operative evaluation, working in collaboration with the OR team.

Required are an RN license, CNOR certification, BLS, and a certificate of completion of an accredited RNFA program, plus 2+ years of perioperative nursing experience. The role emphasizes independent nursing actions within the surgical team.

Qualifications

• Licensed RN with CNOR certification.
• BLS certification within 30 days of hire.

Responsibilities

• Assist surgeon in general and specialized surgeries with readiness of trays and supplies.
• Provide patient care and support; administer medications.
• Perform surgical tasks such as hemostasis, suturing, draping, and tissue handling.
• Position patient and monitor vital signs during surgery.
• Educate patient and family on operation and aftercare; communicate health status.
• Post-operative assessments and monitor for pain/complications.
• Study patient history and health assessments; monitor surgical site.
• Participate in research; scrub and circulate as needed; assist with room turnover.

Skills

Perioperative nursing

Intraoperative collaboration

Independent perioperative assessment

Education

College Diploma: Nursing

RNFA certificate program

Job description

Carle Health is seeking an RN First Assist to support surgeons in general and specialized operations. The RNFA will perform perioperative assessment, assist with intraoperative tasks, and post‑operative evaluation, working in collaboration with the OR team.

Required are an RN license, CNOR certification, BLS, and a certificate of completion of an accredited RNFA program, plus 2+ years of perioperative nursing experience. The role emphasizes independent nursing actions within the surgical team.