Effective: Fall 2017

The knowledge and technique necessary to assuming responsibilities of the RN First Assistant in Surgery (RNFA) are emphasized. The role of the first assistant is explored in its interdependent relationship, as the nurse works both with the physician and for the benefit of the patient. The nursing diagnosis is used as the defining guide in planning and implementing patient care. Expanded functions are stressed and elaborated as the nurse is prepared to assume responsibility in scrubbing, draping, retracting, exposing, clamping, ligating and suturing. Intellectual and manual dexterity are combined to prepare the nurse with the essential skills necessary to this expanded professional role.

To qualify of the RN First Assistant Program, students must be a perioperative registered nurse with two (2) years of perioperative nursing experience, have achieved certification in perioperative nursing (CNOR) or be eligible to take the CNOR Exam, or be a certified Nurse Practitioner, or certified Nurse Midwife.

A certificate will be awarded upon completion of the program with a 2.0 GPA and a “C” or better in all Allied Health and Nursing (AHN) courses.