RNFA's any out there or taking course

cactus wren · Feb 27, 2003

I know a couple, but don`t have the foggiest how they got those certs...They usually work most with an ortho doc, sometimes with a gen surg...Seem to like their jobs...Guess go do a search on Goddle

Sarah, RNBScN · Feb 27, 2003

Thanks for the reply Cactus wren.

spineCNOR · Feb 27, 2003

There are 2 CRNFAs where I work--they are employed as staff nurses, and function in the staff nurse role, as the hospital does not have RNFA positions, and doesn't seem to have any interest in developing them. They both attended the school held in Taos/Santa Fe, New Mexico.

A local university hospital does use RNFAs as a separate position, and they are very well compensated. There are quite a few hospitals that employ RNFAs as well as individual surgeons. I think it depends greatly on the insurance reimbursement in the individual states. Compensation varies greatly, depending on the work setting and employer. You can browse the job listings in the back of the AORN Journal.

Website for certification matters:

http://www.certboard.org

Not sure if this answers your questions...

Sarah, RNBScN · Feb 27, 2003

Thanks for the information spineCNOR. I was hoping this site would have a RNFA on who would share some insight into the profession. Thanks again.

PennyLane, RN · Feb 27, 2003

Wow, you've posted this everywhere.

mollyl · Feb 28, 2003

Well I went through the RNFA 6 day didactic program, along with the other things that you have to do...I have submitted the paper work to get priviledges at all the hospitals, and of course they don't have that role yet...So I've done it under Allied Health, at least that is what I did, and was told to go that route. I can't wait to start. I have 4 surgeons that I will be working with, when it is all said and done. I will go independent, and NIFA will do the billing for me. Check out that School, look on AORN, and NIFA web site. All the info is there. The Six day didactic classes fill up quick.

Where do you live? What State, area, etc.... I'm in the Alamo City. San Antonio, TX. Keep in touch and let me know how it's going for you! Good Luck! Also check with your state legislature. I know in TX they are finally getting with the program!

frethtx · Jan 18, 2004

I am a CRNFA in the Central Texas area. My practice takes me to a dozen different facilities in three different cities. I have been self-employed for nearly 5 years practicing as a CRNFA. Texas is one of the 9 states that mandate reimbursement for the RNFA. . There is no reimbursement through federal programs including Medicare. I have been through three billing service agencies and now use an individual to do my billing.

In my practice, the suegeon's office calls to schedule for an assistant when the patient is scheduled with the facility. I make it my practice to check on scheduled surgery times with the facility the day before. I try whenever possible to arrive in sufficient time to interview the patient pre-operatively, introducing myself and my role in their surgical procedure, answer questions from both patient and family. Then I assist the O.R. staff in room preparation, sharing any information that I may have. I assist with anesthesia induction as needed, positioning, catheterization, etc. before scrubbing. I drape, assist, and never leave the room before the patient.

I currently have approximately 8 surgeons of varying specialties who use my services routinely and another half dozen who occasionally use my services. The hardest part is getting out and selling myself. My current workload is 30-40 surgeries per month. I have a new enthusiasm for my career.