Top 11 Operating Room Nurse Certifications

Certifications are important for operating room nurses in the job market because they demonstrate a nurse’s specialized knowledge and skills. Operating room nursing is a highly technical and specialized field, so employers want to know that their employees have the training and experience necessary to provide safe, effective patient care. Certifications also show potential employers that a nurse has met certain standards of knowledge and proficiency, which can be beneficial when applying for jobs. Finally, certifications can open up new opportunities for advancement within a healthcare organization, as they demonstrate a level of expertise that can make an individual more competitive in the job market.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Operating Room Nurses, and explains how they can help to advance an operating room nurse's career.

What are Operating Room Nurse Certifications?

Operating room nurse certification is a voluntary credential that demonstrates an advanced level of expertise in the clinical practice of perioperative nursing. It is offered by several professional organizations, such as the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) and the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). This certification provides recognition for nurses who demonstrate knowledge in areas such as preoperative patient assessment, intraoperative care, and postoperative care.

Having this certification can help to ensure that operating room nurses are up-to-date on current practice standards, which can lead to improved patient outcomes. Additionally, it can provide career advancement opportunities and increased job satisfaction for operating room nurses. Certification may also help employers identify qualified candidates when searching for new hires. Finally, earning this certification can provide a sense of pride and accomplishment for those who have achieved it.

Pro Tip: Operating Room Nurse Certification requires you to pass a written and practical exam. Be sure to study thoroughly, practice the practical skills, and review any relevant material before taking the exam. Additionally, be sure to ask your employer or supervisor for any additional resources that may help you prepare.

Related: What does an Operating Room Nurse do?

Top 11 Operating Room Nurse Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Operating Room Nurses today.

1. Certified Perioperative Nurse (CNOR)

Certified Perioperative Nurse (CNOR) is a credential given to nurses who specialize in the care of patients before, during, and after surgery. The CNOR certification is administered by the Competency & Credentialing Institute (CCI), an independent certifying organization for perioperative nurses. The CNOR certification demonstrates that a nurse has the knowledge and skills necessary to provide safe and effective care in the operating room setting.

It takes approximately 6-12 months to prepare for the CNOR exam. During this time, it is important for nurses to review their knowledge of perioperative nursing concepts and practice taking sample exams. It is also recommended that nurses attend continuing education courses related to perioperative nursing topics.

To become certified as a CNOR, you must first meet eligibility requirements which include: current licensure as a registered nurse or advanced practice registered nurse; two years of full-time experience within the past three years; and completion of 30 hours of continuing education in perioperative nursing within the last three years. Once these requirements are met, you can apply online at CCI’s website and pay an application fee of $200. After submitting your application, you will be required to take and pass a computer-based exam which consists of 150 multiple choice questions. The cost for taking the exam is $350 plus any applicable taxes or fees.

Once you have successfully passed your exam, you will receive your official certificate from CCI along with a wallet card verifying your credentials as a Certified Perioperative Nurse (CNOR).

2. Certified Operating Room Registered Nurse (CORRN)

A Certified Operating Room Registered Nurse (CORRN) is a specialized nurse who has achieved advanced certification in the field of operating room nursing. CORRNs are responsible for providing direct patient care in the operating room and other surgical settings. They assist surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other healthcare professionals during surgery by preparing patients for procedures, monitoring vital signs, administering medications, and performing other duties as assigned.

It typically takes between six months to one year of study and practice to become a CORRN. In order to qualify for certification, applicants must have at least two years of experience as an operating room nurse and must pass a comprehensive exam administered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA).

The cost of becoming a CORRN varies depending on the organization offering the certification. The NBSTSA charges $395 for their exam fee plus an additional $150 for processing fees. Other organizations may charge different amounts depending on their requirements.

In addition to passing the exam, applicants must also complete continuing education courses in order to maintain their certification status. These courses are offered through various organizations such as hospitals or professional associations. The cost of these courses can range from free to several hundred dollars depending on the course content and length.

3. Certified Ambulatory Perioperative Nursing (CAPN)

Certified Ambulatory Perioperative Nursing (CAPN) is a certification program designed to recognize the specialized knowledge and skills of registered nurses who work in ambulatory surgery centers. The CAPN certification is offered by the American Board of Perianesthesia Nursing Certification (ABPANC).

To become certified as a CAPN, applicants must have at least two years of full-time experience or its equivalent in ambulatory perioperative nursing within the last three years. They must also provide documentation of current licensure as a registered nurse and completion of 30 hours of continuing education in perianesthesia nursing within the last three years.

The cost for the CAPN exam is $325 for non-members and $225 for members of ABPANC. The exam consists of 175 multiple choice questions and takes approximately 3 hours to complete. Once an applicant has passed the exam, they will receive their certification from ABPANC.

4. Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS)

Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) is a set of clinical interventions for the urgent treatment of cardiac arrest, stroke, and other life-threatening medical emergencies. It is based on the Basic Life Support (BLS) guidelines developed by the American Heart Association. ACLS consists of a series of algorithms or protocols that provide step-by-step instructions for responding to various medical emergencies. The goal of ACLS is to improve patient outcomes by providing timely, high-quality care in a structured manner.

ACLS certification typically takes between 8 to 16 hours to complete, depending on the provider's program. The course includes lectures and hands-on practice with mannequins and/or simulated patients. Participants must demonstrate their knowledge and skills through written and practical examinations before they can receive certification.

In order to get ACLS certified, individuals must find an approved provider who offers the course. Providers can be found online or through local hospitals or medical schools.

The cost of ACLS certification varies depending on the provider but typically ranges from $100-$400 per person.

5. Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS)

Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) is a certification program developed by the American Heart Association to provide healthcare professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to assess, recognize, and manage critically ill infants and children. PALS is an advanced level of resuscitation training for healthcare providers who care for children in emergency situations. The program focuses on recognizing and managing cardiac arrest, shock, respiratory distress, and other life-threatening medical emergencies.

The PALS course typically takes two days to complete. The course is offered at many hospitals, community centers, or online through various organizations such as the American Heart Association or Red Cross. The cost of the course varies depending on where it is taken but generally ranges from $200 - $400.

The PALS course consists of lectures, interactive activities, simulated scenarios, and a written exam. Upon successful completion of the course participants will receive a certification card valid for two years that can be used to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in pediatric advanced life support.

6. Basic Life Support (BLS)

Basic Life Support (BLS) is a set of emergency medical procedures used to provide immediate care for someone who has suffered a cardiac arrest, stroke, or other medical emergency. BLS includes chest compressions, rescue breathing, and the use of an automated external defibrillator (AED). BLS is typically provided by healthcare professionals such as nurses, paramedics, and physicians.

It typically takes about 4-6 hours to complete a BLS course. Most courses are offered in hospitals or medical centers and can be taken online or in person. The cost of the course varies depending on the provider and location but typically ranges from $50-$100.

In order to become certified in BLS, you must successfully complete a course that covers topics such as recognizing signs of cardiac arrest, providing chest compressions and rescue breathing, using an AED correctly, performing basic airway management techniques, and providing first aid for choking victims. After completing the course you will receive a certification card that is valid for two years.

7. Trauma Nursing Core Course (TNCC)

Trauma Nursing Core Course (TNCC) is an evidence-based, internationally recognized educational program that provides nurses with the knowledge, critical thinking skills, and hands-on training to care for trauma patients. It is designed to help nurses develop the skills necessary to recognize and treat life-threatening injuries. The TNCC course focuses on the nursing process as it relates to trauma patient assessment, resuscitation, stabilization, and transport.

The TNCC course consists of two parts: a didactic portion and a psychomotor skills portion. The didactic portion includes lectures, case studies, and group activities that provide nurses with an understanding of the principles of trauma nursing. The psychomotor skills portion includes hands-on practice in airway management, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), hemorrhage control techniques, splinting techniques, and other emergency care procedures.

The TNCC course typically takes 16 hours to complete and can be taken either in person or online. To get certified in TNCC you must complete both parts of the course and pass a written exam. You can find a list of approved providers on the Emergency Nurses Association (ENA) website at www.ena.org/tncc/. The cost of the TNCC course varies depending on where you take it but typically ranges from $200-$400 USD.

8. Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP)

The Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) is a program developed by the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Heart Association to teach healthcare providers how to provide resuscitation and stabilization care for newborns. The goal of NRP is to improve the quality of care provided to newborns during their transition from the womb to extrauterine life.

NRP is a two-day course that covers topics such as basic resuscitation techniques, airway management, ventilation support, chest compressions, umbilical cord management, and neonatal pharmacology. Participants must complete both days of the course in order to receive certification.

To get certified in NRP, you must find an approved NRP provider who offers courses in your area. You can find a list of approved providers on the American Academy of Pediatrics website. The cost for attending an NRP course varies depending on the provider; however, most courses range from $200-$300 per person.

Once you have completed an NRP course and passed the exam, you will receive an official certification card that is valid for two years. After two years, you must renew your certification by completing another NRP course or taking an online refresher course.

9. Surgical Technology Certification

Surgical Technology Certification is a professional credential that demonstrates a person’s knowledge and skills in the field of surgical technology. It is earned by passing an exam administered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). The certification is valid for four years, and must be renewed every four years to maintain active status.

To become certified, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Have graduated from an accredited surgical technologist program or have completed a course of study approved by NBSTSA
• Have at least one year of full-time experience as a surgical technologist within the last five years
• Have no felony convictions
• Pass the NBSTSA certification exam

The cost of taking the NBSTSA certification exam varies depending on whether or not you have taken it before. For first-time test takers, the cost is $200; for those who have previously taken it, the cost is $100. Additionally, there are fees associated with submitting an application to take the exam and renewing your certification every four years. These fees range from $50 to $100.

The length of time it takes to get certified depends on how quickly you complete your application and pass the exam. Generally speaking, it takes about two months from start to finish.

10. International Board of Specialty Nursing Certification in Operating Room Nursing

International Board of Specialty Nursing Certification in Operating Room Nursing (IBSNCORN) is a certification program designed to recognize the specialized knowledge and expertise of nurses who work in operating rooms. The certification is recognized by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).

The IBSNCORN certification is a voluntary process that requires nurses to demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and abilities related to the care of patients undergoing surgical procedures. To be eligible for the certification, nurses must have at least two years of full-time experience as an operating room nurse and hold a current registered nursing license.

The IBSNCORN exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete. The exam covers topics such as patient assessment, preoperative preparation and management, intraoperative management, postoperative care, infection control, safety practices, and ethical considerations.

To get certified by IBSNCORN, you must first apply for the exam through ANCC's website. You will need to provide documentation of your eligibility requirements such as your nursing license and proof of two years' experience in an operating room setting. Once your application has been approved by ANCC you can register for the exam online or by mail.

The cost for the IBSNCORN exam is $295 USD plus applicable taxes. After passing the exam you will receive a certificate from ANCC valid for five years. During this time you must maintain your professional credentials through continuing education credits or re-testing every five years in order to maintain your certification status.

11. Emergency Nurse Practitioner Certification

Emergency Nurse Practitioner Certification (ENP-C) is a certification program for nurse practitioners who specialize in emergency care. This certification demonstrates that the nurse practitioner has achieved a level of competency and knowledge to practice as an advanced practice provider in the emergency care setting.

The ENP-C certification requires a minimum of 500 hours of clinical experience in an emergency department within the past three years, as well as successful completion of the ENP-C exam. The exam consists of 175 multiple choice questions and must be completed within two and a half hours.

In order to become certified, applicants must first meet the eligibility requirements set forth by the American Academy of Emergency Nurse Practitioners (AAENP). These include being licensed as an RN or APRN, holding a master’s degree or higher in nursing or related field, having at least 500 hours of clinical experience in an emergency department within the past three years, and completing 30 contact hours of continuing education specific to emergency care.

The cost for taking the ENP-C exam is $495 for AAENP members and $595 for non-members. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with obtaining required continuing education credits prior to taking the exam.

Do You Really Need a Operating Room Nurse Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on a few factors. If you are already a registered nurse, then the answer is likely no. Most operating rooms are staffed by experienced nurses who have been trained and certified in their field, and there is usually no need for an additional certificate. However, if you are not already a registered nurse but would like to pursue a career in the operating room, then obtaining an Operating Room Nurse Certificate may be beneficial.

An Operating Room Nurse Certificate provides specialized training in the care of patients undergoing surgical procedures. This type of certification typically requires several years of experience as well as taking courses related to the specific needs of operating room patients and staff. With this type of certification, you can demonstrate that you have the knowledge and skills necessary to work in an operating room setting. It can also provide opportunities for advancement within your nursing career.

In conclusion, whether or not you need an Operating Room Nurse Certificate depends on your current level of experience and education. If you are already a registered nurse with experience in the operating room setting, then it may not be necessary for you to obtain this type of certification. However, if you are looking to pursue a career in this field or advance within your current role, then obtaining an Operating Room Nurse Certificate can be beneficial.

Related: Operating Room Nurse Resume Examples

FAQs About Operating Room Nurse Certifications

Q1. What is an Operating Room Nurse Certification?

A1. An Operating Room Nurse Certification is a specialized certification that demonstrates advanced knowledge and expertise in the care of patients undergoing surgery and other related procedures in the operating room. It is awarded to nurses who have completed additional training, education and experience requirements in this field.

Q2. How do I become certified as an Operating Room Nurse?

A2. To become certified as an Operating Room Nurse, you must first complete an accredited nursing program and obtain a valid nursing license. You must then complete additional coursework in surgical technology, anatomy, physiology, pharmacology and other areas related to operating room care. After completing all required courses, you must pass the National Board for Surgical Technology & Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) certification exam to earn your certification.

Q3. What are the benefits of becoming an Operating Room Nurse?

A3. Becoming an Operating Room Nurse offers many benefits including increased job opportunities, higher salaries, greater patient satisfaction, improved patient outcomes, enhanced professional development opportunities and more respect from peers and colleagues in the medical field.

Q4. How long does it take to become certified as an Operating Room Nurse?

A4. The amount of time it takes to become certified as an operating room nurse depends on your educational background and experience level but typically ranges from one year to two years or more depending on how quickly you can complete the required courses and pass the NBSTSA certification exam.

Q5 What are some continuing education requirements for maintaining my Operating Room Nursing Certification?

A5 Maintaining your certification requires completion of continuing education units (CEUs). The exact number of CEUs required varies depending on your certifying body but typically ranges between 20-50 CEUs per two-year period which must be completed prior to recertification every two years