Surgical First Assistant

JOB TITLE: Surgical First Assistant

REPORTS TO: Clinical Supervisor

DEPARTMENT/LOCATION: Clinical, On-Site 

JOB CLASSIFICATION: Permanent, Full-Time, Non-Exempt.  

REQUIREMENTS:  Certification as a Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) or RNFA

LAST MODIFIED: 8/26/2026 

POSITION SUMMARY

The Surgical First Assistant plays a vital role in assisting physicians with complex surgical procedures by offering advanced intraoperative support and ensuring optimal surgical outcomes. This highly skilled clinical professional is responsible for anticipating surgical team needs, maintaining sterile conditions, and delivering exceptional patient care throughout the perioperative continuum. The first assistant demonstrates compassionate, patient-centered care and exhibits deep knowledge of operating room protocols, particularly in the field of urology. The position requires collaboration with surgeons, nurses, anesthesiologists, and other perioperative personnel to maintain a safe and effective surgical environment.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS 

• Prepare the operating room and surgical field, ensuring all instruments and equipment are sterilized and available per procedural requirements.
• Assist with patient positioning, skin preparation, and draping based on the procedure and surgeon preferences.
• Review patient histories, surgical plans, and procedural considerations with the surgical team.
• Provide intraoperative assistance including suctioning, tissue retraction, clamping, suturing, cauterizing, and other delegated duties.
• Anticipate surgeon and team needs during procedures and respond efficiently.
• Maintain strict aseptic technique and sterile field protocols throughout surgery.
• Monitor patient condition intraoperatively and communicate any concerns to the surgical team.
• Assist with safe patient transfer to the recovery area and participate in immediate postoperative care tasks.
• Accurately document surgical procedures, observations, and patient outcomes in accordance with facility policy and state regulations.

                 Other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS  

• Certification as a Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) or equivalent from a nationally recognized certifying body: (RNFA)
• NBSTSA, ABSA, NSAA, or equivalent.
• Valid Iowa license or certification, as applicable, for surgical assisting or nursing if RN-licensed.
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification from the American Heart Association or American Red Cross (required).
• Minimum of 1 year of OR or surgical experience preferred; 2 years as a Certified Surgical Technologist strongly preferred.
• Extensive knowledge of surgical procedures, techniques, and instrumentation—especially in urology.
• Proficiency in aseptic techniques, sterile field maintenance, and infection control.
• Strong manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination to assist in delicate procedures.
• Ability to work effectively in a high-pressure, fast-paced environment.
• Strong teamwork and communication skills to function smoothly within a multidisciplinary team.
• Compassionate, professional, and respectful attitude toward patients and peers.
• Ability to multitask, anticipate needs, and think critically under pressure.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT 

This role is based in a fast-paced, patient-focused urology clinic where collaboration is key. Our team of physicians, nurses, and support staff work together in a modern facility equipped with an EHR system and on-site diagnostic services. The atmosphere is professional yet warm, with a shared commitment to delivering compassionate, high-quality care to a diverse patient population.  The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.  Potential exposure to infectious diseases, bloodborne pathogens and chemical cleaning agents. Electronic medical records (EMR) systems, phone systems and standard medical equipment.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS 

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Ability to stand and walk for extended periods of time, assist with positioning and transferring patients safely, wear lead protective apparel for extended periods as required during procedures, respond rapidly during emergencies, operate clinical equipment, and perform the physical functions necessary to provide safe procedural and recovery nursing care.  Specific vision abilities required by this job include Close vision and Distance vision. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to lift patients and carry items weighing up to 30 pounds unassisted, adequate physical ability, including sufficient manual dexterity, to perform the requisite healthcare services, stand; walk; sit and talk or hear.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

• Continuing education and training are encouraged and supported to remain current with evolving surgical technologies and best practices.
• Participation in in-services and certification renewals is expected.

COMPANY OVERVIEW 

OUR MISSION: To provide compassionate, world-class urologic care and exceptional experiences for our patients, employees and partners.   

OUR VISION: Curing the world of urologic disorders, one person at a time.   

OUR VALUES: At UCI, we are passionate about patient experience and making the healthcare journey from diagnosis through treatment as easy and stress-free as possible! Through unmatched integration and access for patients, partner hospitals and other physicians in the community, we provide world-class urologic care in an attentive environment where you are at the center of all we do.