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RNAS-C Application

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The fee to take the exam for RNAS-C certification is $425.

RNAS-C Eligibility Requirements

Eligibility requirements to sit for the RNAS-C exam are as follows:

If the applicant is an RN (not an advanced practice registered nurse), the eligibility requirements for the RNAS-C examination include the following:

  • Currently hold CNOR certification
  • Current, unrestricted RN licensure in the country where currently practicing.
  • ACLS, BLS, or CPR certified.
  • Completion of an acceptable formal RNFA program. A copy of the certificate of completion must accompany the application.
  • A minimum of 120 documented hours of first assisting practice as an RNFA during the intraoperative phase.
  • The 120 hours may include practice in an RNFA internship or practicum but may not include attendance of classes, programs or seminars.
  • The 120 hours must be in the two years immediately preceding application.

If the applicant is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN), e.g., CNS, NP, CNM, or CRNA, the eligibility requirements for the RNAS-C examination include the following:

  • Certified as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) by an accredited certification program.
  • Current, unrestricted RN licensure in the country where currently practicing.
  • ACLS, BLS, or CPR certified.
  • Completion of an acceptable formal RNFA program. A copy of the certificate of completion must accompany the application.
  • A minimum of 120 documented hours of first assisting practice as an RNFA during the intraoperative phase.
  • The 120 hours may include practice in an RNFA internship or practicum but may not include attendance of classes, programs or seminars.
  • The 120 hours must be in the two years immediately preceding application.

All applicants must submit a letter of recommendation from 1) a surgeon and 2) an OR supervisor or manager with their application. Click the links below for printable letters of recommendation.

Surgeon letter of recommendation
Facility letter of recommendation

 

How do I document 120 hours of practice?

All RNFAs must have completed at least 120 hours of intraoperative practice as an RNFA at the time of application. Intraoperative practice begins when the patient enters the operating room and ends when the patient leaves the operating room.

In addition:

  • The 120 hours must be in the two years immediately preceding application.
  • The 120 hours may include practice in an RNFA internship or practicum, otherwise the hours must be completed after graduation from the RNFA program.
  • Practice hours earned in a volunteer status while working in the RNFA role may be utilized in fulfillment of this requirement.
  • The 120 hours may not include attendance of classes, programs or seminars.
  • Intraoperative hours must include serving in the first assistant role. While performing in the intraoperative role the first assistant cannot be concurrently serving in any other perioperative nursing role.

Documentation that must be submitted with the application includes the following:

  • Date of procedure
  • Type of procedure
  • Duration of procedure
  • Initials of the surgeon assisted

 

How do I apply?

 

To apply for RNAS-C certification, click the “Login” link at the top of this page, then click “NASC Profile”.  On the Login page, click the orange “Register as an Applicant” button to create your online account

This guide includes handy checklists to check your eligibility and gather your documents before you apply.

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