Applying for the CFPN Certification
The Certified Foundational Perioperative Nurse (CFPN) credential is the first step on the path to certification for early career perioperative nurses. Earning the CFPN provides nurses a firm foundation for career-long professional development success and provides a fast track to CNOR and CNAMB. The CFPN is a two-year credential with no recertification mechanism. Learn about the credential, familiarize yourself with the application process, and formulate an exam preparation plan.
Application Process
CFPN Certification Application Process
Confirm your eligibility.
Determine when you would like to take the knowledge-based test, the first component of CFPN certification. Your testing window will begin the calendar month after your application is approved. Your exam will be taken via remote proctor from the location of your choice. Passing the test is required to move on to the other three components.
Apply for the CFPN credential. You may submit your application online at any time by creating a CCI account or logging into your existing account.
Schedule your knowledge-based test by clicking on the "PSI Exam Scheduling" button in your CCI account after your application is submitted. For additional testing center information, please refer to the CFPN Handbook.
After you pass the knowledge-based test, complete the remaining three components to earn CFPN certification: 16pf® competency report, self-assessment of competency (PPCS-R), and the reflective learning exercise.
Overview
CFPN Credential Components
Knowledge-Based Test
CCI’s CFPN knowledge-based test is taken online via a remote, secure, and proctored exam experience provided by our testing vendor, PSI.
- 120 multiple-choice questions
- 2.5 hours to complete the exam online
- Results are pass or fail
Primary Exam References
- Guidelines for Perioperative Practice
AORN. (current edition). Guidelines for perioperative practice. AORN. - Alexander’s Care of the Patient in Surgery
Rothrock, J. C. (Ed.). (2023). Alexander’s care of the patient in surgery (17th ed.). Elsevier. - Drain’s Perianesthesia Nursing: A Critical Care Approach
Odom-Forren, J. (Ed.). (2018). Drain’s perianesthesia nursing: A critical care approach (7th ed.). Elsevier
Self-Assessment of Competency
Measured using the Perceived Perioperative Competence Scale (PPCS-R), accessed in the Candidate’s CCI account.
- 15-minute self-assessment of the Candidate’s perception of their perioperative knowledge and skills
- Online, non-proctored, not a graded activity
- Candidates will receive a feedback report including context for their scores in relation to other perioperative nurses
16pf® Competency Report
Assesses 16 primary personality factors to measure skills and traits nurses will need to be successful throughout their careers. Candidates receive PSI’s 16pf® Competency Report with interpretive information and professional development tips.
- 45-minute online assessment hosted by PSI
- Online, non-proctored; report accessible in CCI account
- Identifies key personality characteristics that contribute to on-the-job success
- Recognizes a candidate’s potential for leadership and preferred leadership style
- Addresses the essential soft skills that contribute to competency in perioperative nursing practice
Reflective Learning Exercise
The final component for earning the credential. Candidates will develop a personal development plan for the next two years of their careers—the duration of the CFPN credential.
- Includes CCI’s reflective learning form for guidance
- Pass or fail activity accessed via CCI account
Certification Fee
CFPN Credential Fee
The CFPN application fee is $195 and includes all four components. CFPN certification is a fast track to CNOR and CNAMB with lessened eligibility requirements (earning the CFPN is not a requirement to apply for CNOR or CNAMB certifications). CFPN credential holders will also receive a discount on CNOR and CNAMB exam applications fees.
CCI offers volume discounts for health systems seeking to certify multiple nurses. Download the CFPN Facility Order Forms to enroll.
GET PREPARED
CFPN Resources
Additional information and resources for the CFPN credential can be found in the Learn section.
Get Prepared
CFPN Exam Preparation
CFPN Pocket Prep App
Exam Prep Product Disclaimer: As a certification organization, CCI’s role is developing and administering certification examinations. CCI does not require or endorse any specific study guides, review products, or training courses. Candidates may prepare for certification examinations with any educational materials they choose. Purchase of CCI review materials is not a requirement for testing, nor does use of any review materials (CCI or otherwise) imply successful performance on the certification examinations. No study resources are prerequisites for the certification examinations.
