CNOR Exam Preparation Resources

There are a variety of resources and tools to help you prepare to take the CNOR exam ranging from test-taking tips to online practice tests to a comprehensive study guide. CCI’s experienced and dedicated staff and volunteers are also available to help you prepare. You don’t have to do this alone. With the right tools and guidance, you will be poised to pass the CNOR exam.

CNOR Study Guide

The leading and definitive CNOR exam preparation resource.  Published by CCI and based on the current CNOR exam test blueprint, the CNOR Exam Study Guide (Interactive Study Guide) is your "go to" study tool.   

Primary Reference for the CNOR Exam

The questions on the current CNOR exam are based on the 2011 AORN Standards and Recommended Practices. The 2012 Perioperative Standards and Recommended Practices, published by AORN, Inc., is available through the AORN bookstore.

CCI Preparation Resources

CCI recognizes that diversifying your study for the CNOR exam leads to successful test preparation.  As such, we offer a variety of test preparation materials to meet your needs.

• Ultimate CNOR Study Kit
• CNOR Exam Study Guide (Interactive Study Guide)
• CNOR Exam Flashcards
• Practice Question CD-Rom
• e-Practice Tests

Perioperative Reference Books

CCI recommends using one of the following comprehensive perioperative reference books when you are studying for the CNOR exam:

• Competency for Safe Patient Care During Operative and Invasive Procedures, Mark Phippen, Brenda Ulmer, Maryann Wells, CCI, 2009
• Alexander's Care of the Patient in Surgery, Rothrock, J.C., 14th ed, 2010
• Berry and Kohn's Operating Room Technique, Phillips, N., 12th ed., 2012

CNOR Study Group Materials

Thinking about teaching or leading a CNOR study group? CCI has several valuable resources for you. The downloadable CNOR Study Group Materials, which are available through the CCI Bookstore, include the CCI CNOR Group Lesson Plan, CNOR Prep Class Schedule, meeting posters, instructor’s introductory letter, and recent article on Hospital-Based Study Groups for Certification. These resources are companion tools to the

Perioperative Nursing Question of the Week on Facebook

Need to enhance your critical thinking skills which are essential to successfully pass the CNOR exam?  Or, simply looking for additional ways to study? Follow the engaging and informative discussion on the Perioperative Nursing Question of the Week (QOTW) on the Facebook CNOR Nurses page. The QOTW is an easy and fun way to participate in and learn from evidence-based discussions on patient-center case studies. Current references are provided to sharpen your clinical practice.

Can't access Facebook at work? You may follow the discussion on your smartphone. Simply "Like" Periop Nursing QOTW, then you will receive new QOTW in your newsfeeds. Take part in the active learning that is happening every day.