First Assistant Ltd (FAL) has been established with the needs of the surgeon, and the patient in mind. FAL provides a surgical assistant who has completed a recognised training programme such as the RNFSA training programme offered at the University of Auckland and who has attained the knowledge, understanding and skills to assist in the surgical care of a patient in all areas of their surgical journey.

FAL can also support RNs who are undergoing their training if they have a suitable surgeon mentor who is willing to support them through this programme.

FAL requires mandatory assessment annually of all staff to ensure staff are practising to the expert standard required, and that all staff are working within the scope of practice of the RN as per Nursing Council of New Zealand requirements.