RN-First Assist

About North Country Healthcare (NCH):

North Country Healthcare is a non-profit affiliation of four medical facilities, Androscoggin Valley Hospital, North Country Home Health & Hospice Agency, Upper Connecticut Valley Hospital, and Weeks Medical Center, located in the White Mountains Region of New Hampshire. NCH includes numerous physicians and medical providers at multiple locations. This leading comprehensive healthcare network which employs hundreds of highly-trained individuals delivers integrated patient care through three community hospitals, specialty clinics, and home health and hospice services. NCH remains committed to the health and well-being of the communities we serve. As a leader in a management position this role emphasizes advancing High-Reliability Organization (HRO) principles, embedding a culture of safety, accountability, and consistent high performance.

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Registered Nurse First Assistant (RNFA) plays a critical role in surgical teams, providing direct patient care and operating room assistance. The RNFA works closely with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other healthcare professionals to ensure optimal surgical outcomes. This position requires advanced clinical knowledge and skills in perioperative nursing. This role requires a dedicated and skilled nursing professional committed to providing exceptional patient care and surgical assistance.

ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS

Education:

• Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) or higher.

Certification:

• Certified Registered Nurse First Assistant (CRNFA) preferred.

Licensure:

• Current Registered Nurse (RN) license.
• Association* accredited course in Basic Life Support (BLS) (for clinical staff), or Heartsaver CPR AED (for nonclinical staff), and renewal on a regular basis, with up to a three-month grace period after the expiration date.

Skills:

• Strong understanding of surgical procedures and techniques.
• Excellent manual dexterity and precision.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure.
• Strong organizational and multitasking abilities.
• Effective communication and collaboration skills.

Work Experience:

• Minimum of two years of perioperative nursing experience.
• Experience in a surgical assistant role is preferred.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

1. Assist surgeons during operative and invasive procedures by providing exposure, hemostasis, and suturing.
2. Conduct preoperative and postoperative assessments.
3. Prepare the operating room with necessary instruments and supplies.
4. Ensure sterile techniques are maintained throughout surgical procedures.
5. Monitor the patient’s status and document observations during surgery.
6. Collaborate with the surgical team to develop and implement patient care plans.
7. Educate patients and families about surgical procedures and postoperative care.
8. Assist with positioning the patient for optimal access and safety.
9. Participate in surgical site management and wound closure.
10. Maintain comprehensive and accurate patient records in the electronic medical system.
11. Participate in quality improvement and risk management initiatives.
12. Stay updated with the latest surgical techniques and perioperative nursing practices.
13. Provide mentorship and training to new perioperative staff members.
14. Respond to and manage surgical emergencies effectively.
15. Facilitate a smooth workflow and efficient use of resources in the operating room.

NON-ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Performs additional duties as assigned.
2. Adheres to facility Values, Service Excellence and Standards of Excellence.