National Institute of First Assisting, Inc. NIFA
National Institute of First Assisting, Inc. (NIFA) is a renowned institution located at 12354 E Caley Ave #108, Centennial, Colorado, 80111. Established with a focused mission to advance the skills and careers of perioperative nurses, NIFA has grown to become a leader in surgical assisting education and training across the United States. The school is recognized for its commitment to excellence, innovative curriculum, and dedication to preparing competent, confident, and compassionate healthcare professionals who play a critical role in operating rooms and surgical environments.
NIFA specializes in educating Registered Nurses (RNs), Physician Assistants (PAs), and other allied health professionals in the art and science of surgical first assisting. The primary objective of the institution is to bridge the gap between traditional nursing education and the specialized skills required in the fast-paced and demanding environment of surgery. Through comprehensive didactic coursework, hands-on training, and clinical externships, NIFA ensures its graduates are fully prepared to support surgeons and surgical teams at the highest level.
The school offers a variety of programs, the most notable being its RN First Assistant (RNFA) program. This curriculum is designed to meet the needs of experienced perioperative nurses who wish to expand their role and scope of practice. The RNFA program is accredited by recognized nursing and perioperative organizations, ensuring that the education provided meets rigorous standards for quality and relevance. The program typically includes core content areas such as surgical anatomy, physiology, aseptic techniques, surgical procedures, wound management, and patient safety, as well as advanced first assisting skills like suturing, hemostasis, and tissue handling.
One of NIFA’s distinguishing features is its hybrid learning model, which combines online didactic education with intensive, hands-on workshops. This approach allows working professionals to continue their employment while advancing their education. The online modules are self-paced and accessible, providing flexibility for students with demanding schedules. Hands-on workshops, conducted at state-of-the-art facilities, offer immersive experiences where students practice essential skills under the guidance of expert instructors. These workshops simulate real-world surgical scenarios, fostering critical thinking, technical proficiency, and teamwork.
Clinical externships are a cornerstone of NIFA’s programs. Students are placed in affiliated hospitals and surgical centers, where they gain direct experience under the supervision of experienced surgical assistants and surgeons. This real-world exposure is invaluable in building the confidence and competence required to function effectively in the operating room. NIFA maintains strong relationships with healthcare facilities nationwide to ensure that students have access to diverse and comprehensive clinical learning opportunities.
NIFA is also committed to lifelong learning and professional development. The school offers continuing education courses, workshops, and seminars that keep healthcare professionals abreast of the latest advances in surgical techniques, technology, and patient care standards. These offerings support ongoing certification requirements and help graduates maintain a competitive edge in their careers.
Faculty at NIFA are experienced, credentialed professionals with extensive backgrounds in perioperative nursing, surgical assisting, and medical education. They are passionate about teaching and mentoring, providing personalized guidance to help each student achieve their career goals. Small class sizes and a collaborative learning environment ensure that students receive individual attention and support throughout their educational journey.
The impact of NIFA’s programs is evident in the success and satisfaction of its graduates. Alumni of the school are employed in hospitals, ambulatory surgery centers, and specialty practices across the country. Many have advanced to leadership roles within their organizations or have become educators themselves, perpetuating the cycle of excellence in surgical care.
In summary, the National Institute of First Assisting, Inc. stands out as a premier nursing school dedicated to advancing the role of nurses and allied health professionals in the surgical field. Through rigorous academics, practical training, and a student-centered approach, NIFA empowers its graduates to make significant contributions to patient care and surgical outcomes. Its reputation for quality, innovation, and leadership in surgical assisting education makes it a top choice for those seeking to elevate their nursing careers and impact the future of healthcare.