RN First Assistant - Casual 2023-5288

Summary of Duties

The RN-First Assistant (“RNFA”) works collaboratively with the surgeon and all members of the team throughout the patient’s entire perioperative experience. The RNFA assists the surgeon and the OR team to perform a safe operation with optimal patient outcomes.  The core function of this position is expert clinical and evidence-based practice, grounded in theoretical knowledge, advanced education, experience, teaching and research. Applies the nursing process to all facets of the RNFA role, including assessment, nursing diagnosis and patient outcome identification, care planning, implementation, and evaluation.

• Assists in providing a safe working environment for perioperative personnel and patients.
• Promotes collegiality, teambuilding, leadership and management of conflict skills among the perioperative team.
• Acts as patient advocate and nurse liaison with patient families. 
• Performs/assists with Endoscopic vein harvesting

Qualifications/Skills

• Current Certificate of Competence with CNO
• B.Sc.N preferred
• BCLS/ACLS required
• CPN (C) required
• Successful completion of recognized RNFA Program mandatory
• Extensive years experience in O.R. required
• Must have significant related Cardiac O.R. experience
• Models professional behaviour
• Demonstrated leadership skills and evidence of recent professional development activity in leadership
• Demonstrated ability to exercise critical thinking