Staff Registered Nurse First Assistant - Berkshire Medical Center, Shift: Days, 40hrs: TEMP to PERMANENT

Job Summary

The Registered Nurse First Assistant (RNFA) is a Registered Nurse with specialized education and documented competency in perioperative nursing practice consistent with the RNFA Standards of Practice established by the Association of periOperative Nurses (AORN) through successful completion of a post-basic nursing education program whose intent is the preparation of registered nurses to practice as first assistants at surgery.

The Registered Nurse First Assistant (RNFA) is an integral member of the surgical team, providing advanced perioperative nursing care to patients. The RNFA collaborates with surgeons and other healthcare professionals to ensure optimal patient outcomes and demonstrates expertise in the first assistant role during surgery. In addition to primary RNFA responsibilities, this position requires the ability to function as a scrub or circulating nurse as needed, ensuring flexibility and comprehensive patient care throughout the surgical process. While functioning in the RNFA role, the RN works under the direct supervision of the surgeon.

Experience

• Two years perioperative nursing experience required.
• One year of med/surg nursing experience preferred.

Education

• ADN required; BSN preferred.
• CNOR required
• Certificate of completion from an accredited RNFA training program required.
• Demonstrated knowledge of the nursing process through his/her understanding, judgment, and skills.

License & Certifications

• RN License - Currently licensed as an RN in Massachusetts
• CPR
• ACLS - ACLS within 6 months
• RNFAAS - RNFA-C or RNAS-C certfification within 6 months

Additional Requirements

• Demonstrates continuing education in accordance with State regulations.
• Assures compliance with unit-specific scope of practice.
• Must be able to speak the English language in an understandable manner.
• Must possess sight/hearing senses or use prosthetics that will enable these senses to function adequately so the requirements of the position can be fully met.
• Call Rotation
• Occasional weekend or evening shifts based on department needs.
• Knowledge and application of surgical aseptic technique
• Ability to perform effectively in stressful and emergency situations
• Demonstrates knowledge of surgical anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology.
• Knowledge of operative techniques related to the procedures in which the RNFA assists.
• Demonstrates the knowledge and skills necessary to provide services appropriate to the age of the customer being served.
• Demonstrates knowledge and compliance with Joint Commission and National Patient Safety Goals (NPSG).