Surgical First Assist

A surgical first assist is a healthcare professional who is trained and qualified to assist a surgeon during an operation. The surgical first assist acts as an extension of the surgeon, helping to ensure that the procedure runs smoothly and efficiently. They are responsible for a wide range of tasks related to the operation, including preparing the patient for surgery, assisting the surgeon during the procedure, and providing postoperative care. The specific qualifications and training required for a surgical first assist vary depending on the state and facility in which they work.

Typically, a surgical first assist can be a physician assistant (PA) or a nurse practitioner (NP) who has completed additional training and certification in surgical assisting. They are licensed healthcare professionals who work under the supervision of a surgeon and are responsible for a wide range of tasks related to the operation, including preparing the patient for surgery, assisting the surgeon during the procedure, and providing postoperative care.

A registered nurse (RN) or a surgical technologist with additional training and certification in surgical assisting can also serve as a surgical first assist. They are trained to provide specialized care and support to the surgical team and to ensure that the patient is safe and comfortable throughout the procedure.

Would you be a surgical first assist?

• yes!
• no

It is also important to note that while the qualifications and training requirements for a surgical first assist vary by state and facility, they all must have the necessary knowledge and skills to provide safe and effective care to patients during surgery.