RNFA vs PA

[lxiong]

I have NEVER been clear on this subject, although I am sure it has been discussed before, but what is the difference in scope of practice between a RN First Assistant vs. Physician Assistant? I've seen them in the OR and it seems like they are both mid-level practitioners that can assistant in the same types of cases? Is there something I am missing? Does one do more than the other outside of the OR?

[Rose_Queen, BSN, MSN, RN]

RNFA does not require an advanced practice degree; therefore, an RNFA is not necessarily a midlevel practitioner. Outside of the OR, an RNFA does not have any kind of an expanded role. However, a PA does have other roles, as would an NP who is also an RNFA.