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.