Surgical First Assistant

Our Surgical First Assistant level 6 module allows you, as a registered nurse or Operating Department Practitioner, to participate in assisting surgeons during operations.

We anticipate that you'll have a minimum of two years' post-registration operating theatre experience and be able to demonstrate current experience in the scrub role. This is to ensure that you come to the module with a good understanding of the role of a surgical first assistant.

As a surgical first assistant, you’ll be expected to demonstrate appropriate knowledge, skills and expertise to ensure a positive outcome for patients. This module will equip you to practice at a suitable level.

Once you've completed the course, you'll be in a position to make sure this role is used appropriately in your organization, reducing the risk to patients and staff and improving safety.

You will need the support of your manager, a mentor and clinical supervisor (consultant surgeon).

Whilst the taught sessions take place from late January to late July, the module runs over a period of 12 months and you will need support in the workplace from your manager, mentor and clinical supervisor for this period. This is to ensure that you are able to achieve the 100 hours minimum needed to meet the course requirements.