The RN first assistant's role in a laparoscopic cholecystectomy

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is one of the most frequently performed laparoscopic procedures today and involves the same surgical principles as an open cholecystectomy, except that access to the abdomen is gained transabdominally using video laparoscopic techniques and instrumentation. Registered nurse first assistants (RNFAs) provide retraction and tissue exposure for the surgeon during this procedure and should be aware of safe laparoscopic surgical techniques and potential injuries that can occur from manipulation of surrounding structures. The experience and expertise of the RNFA when assisting in a laparoscopic cholecystectomy are key to the successful completion of the surgery.