NASC Leadership in Action
by Bob Salsameda, MPA, MSN, RN, NP-C, CRNFA, CNRN
In 1990, the first edition of the AORN Core Curriculum for the RN First Assistant (RNFA) was published by a pioneer group of futuristic, goal-directed, and innovative perioperative care providers—early RNFAs. This first edition focused on foundational knowledge. It covered essential topics like communication, tissue handling, and basic surgical procedures.
This first edition was the template for RNFA programs to initiate the Association of periOperative Nurses (AORN) standards for preparing RNFAs to function as a first assistant to the surgeon. This outdated foundation document is a historical reference point and is no longer the current standard for training or education.
The 1990 edition represented the role in the evolution of the profession and represented the early stages of establishing the RNFA role, which has since been significantly refined and expanded by a core group of subject matter perioperative experts, AORN leadership, and RNFA Special Assembly membership. The last edition was updated and released in 1994.
Fast forward 31 years to the present, and the 6th edition of the Core Curriculum for the RN First Assistant, a work of art and mastery, is now available for all practicing RNFAs, educational programs, and students. The current contributor list of this updated document consists of eleven (11) volunteer RNFA subject matter experts and one legal analyst under the leadership of H. Charlie Lin, editor-in-chief, who did a yeoman’s job in seeing the update through with the assistance of Liz Cowperthwaite, Senior Managing Editor, AORN.
Our esteemed perioperative care colleague contributors included Janice Kelly, Heidi Nanavati, Jacqueline R. Schmitt, and Amy Young, General Counsel and Director of Government Affairs, AORN.
Of the eleven volunteer RNFA contributors responsible for this updated 6th edition, eight (73%) of the contributors are active National Assistant at Surgery Certification (NASC) certified RN First Assistants (CRNFAs) and one Emeritus CRNFA. They are Bob Salsameda, Karen Knapp, Heidi Keegan, Christina Barnes, Jean Franks, Marlene R. Craden, Charlie Lin, and Sheila L. Allen. Four of the NASC CRNFAs are loyal long-term portfolio evaluators.
NASC Board of Directors member contributors are Bob Salsameda, CRNFA, President, Karen Knapp, CRNFA, Vice President, and Heidi Keegan, CRNFA, Secretary.
Speaking as an experienced RNFA instructor, I see this current edition containing content with the latest curriculum, including crucial updates on evolving surgical procedures and assisting techniques. Current standards are aligned with current AORN standards and educational guidelines for the RNFA profession. Lastly, this most recent edition and invaluable resource better prepares RNFA students for the Certified RNFA (CRNFA) credential.
Allow me to close with the words of Sheila Allen: “This has always been an amazing group; it is an honor to work alongside each of you.”
Bob Salsameda, MPA, MSN, RN, NP-C, CRNFA, CNRN
See you all at Expo 2026!
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