(a) A registered nurse who wishes to function as a first assistant (RNFA) in surgery shall submit an application for registration and all applicable fees to the Board and shall submit evidence including, but not limited to, the following:
- (1) Current licensure as a registered nurse in the State of Texas or reside in any party state and hold a current, valid registered nurse license in that state;
- (2) has a current national certification (CNOR) in perioperative nursing; and
- (3) has completed a nurse first assistant educational program approved by an organization recognized by the Board; or
- (4) has a current certification as a registered nurse first assistant (CRNFA) by a national certifying body recognized by the Board.
- (b) After review by the Board, notification of registration shall be mailed to the RNFA informing him/her that the registration process has been completed.
- (c) The registered nurse whose functions include acting as a first assistant in surgery shall know and conform to the Texas Nursing Practice Act; current Board rules, regulations, and standards of professional nursing; and all federal, state and local laws, rules, and regulations affecting the RNFA specialty area. When collaborating with other health care providers, the RNFA shall be accountable for knowledge of the statutes and rules relating to RNFAs and function within the scope of the registered nurse.
- (d) A registered nurse functioning as a first assistant in surgery shall comply with the standards set forth by the AORN.
Source Note:The provisions of this §217.18 adopted to be effective March 13, 2002, 27 TexReg 1735.