A perioperative registered nurse who works in collaboration with the surgeon and other health care team members to achieve optimal outcomes. The RNFA has acquired the necessary knowledge, judgment, and skills specific to the expanded role of RNFA clinical practice. Intraoperatively, the RNFA assists the surgeon. Source: AORN Official Statement on RNFAs ratified by the AORN House of Delegates in 2004. [7/1/2006: new]