To advance the health and wellbeing of our community with a compassionate and caring spirit.
The RN / CST First Assist (RNFA/CSFA) works in collaboration with the surgeon and perioperative team to facilitate safe, efficient surgical procedures and deliver high-quality patient care. This role combines advanced surgical assisting responsibilities with professional nursing practice, including patient assessment, care coordination, and perioperative support.
The First Assist is responsible for preparing and positioning patients, assisting in visualization of the surgical field, providing hemostasis, handling tissues, suturing/closure, and supporting pre- and post-operative care to ensure optimal patient outcomes.
Surgical First Assist Responsibilities:
- Provide first and second assist to the surgeon during procedures
- Prepare and position patients for surgery
- Assist with exposure, visualization, and hemostasis
- Perform wound closure, apply dressings, and assist with surgical grafts
- Maintain sterile technique and aseptic environment at all times
- Prepare, maintain, and troubleshoot surgical equipment and instruments
Nursing Responsibilities:
- Deliver direct, patient-centered care using evidence-based practice
- Assess, plan, implement, and evaluate patient care across the perioperative continuum
- Educate patients and families on procedures and recovery
- Collaborate with surgeons, anesthesia, and interdisciplinary teams
- Supervise and coordinate care delivery within the OR
Operational & Support Functions:
- Prepare materials, supplies, and equipment for procedures
- Maintain inventory, restock supplies, and ensure equipment readiness
- Assist with patient transport and specimen handling
- Support pre- and post-operative care activities as needed
- Participate in quality improvement initiatives and team projects
- Maintain accurate documentation and utilize EMR systems effectively
- Minimum 2–3 years of Operating Room experience – Required
- Previous experience as a First Assist (RNFA or CSFA) – Preferred
- Active Registered Nurse (RN) license – Illinois or Certified Surgical First Assistant credential
- RNFA or CSFA Certification (NBSTSA, AST, or ABSA) – Required
- AHA Basic Life Support (BLS) – Required
- AHA Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) – Required
- PALS – Preferred
- CNOR – Preferred
We support your professional growth and personal success with:
- Flexible scheduling (Full-time, Part-time, Supplemental)
- Tuition reimbursement
- Student Loan Repayment Program
- Payactiv (get paid as you earn)
- Career advancement opportunities
Explore Benefits: https://www.deaconess.com/dil-benefit-guide (https://www.deaconess.com/dil-benefit-guide)
Required
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Associates or better in Nursing
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights (https://www.eeoc.gov/poster) notice from the Department of Labor.
