Certified Surgical Services Manager
The Certified Surgical Services Manager (CSSM) certification is the only perioperative management credential for perioperative managers, directors, and nurses who oversee personnel, a budget, business unit, or service line. Earning the CSSM is a mark of distinction and recognizes the important role managers play in delivering safe patient care.
Certification
About the CSSM
Earning the CSSM is a mark of distinction and recognizes the important role managers play in delivering safe patient care.
Eligibility
Check Your CSSM Exam Eligibility
A current, unrestricted RN license in the country where currently practicing.
Hold a Bachelor's degree or higher in Arts or Science
Currently working full- or part-time in perioperative management role, with a minimum of two to four years' experience. *
In the two years preceding your application, complete a minimum of 30-50 contact hours or 60-100 Professional Activity points in one or more of the CSSM exam subject areas, or complete 6-12 hours of academic coursework in one or more of the subject areas. *
*Requirement dependent on CNOR status. CNOR certification is not a requirement of CSSM candidates.
Overview
CSSM Exam Overview
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Study and Preparation
Study prep time
We recommend a minimum of three months for exam study and preparation.
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Primary Exam References
These texts are the primary references for the CSSM exam. Download our CSSM Study Plan for reference material by subject area.
Guidelines for Perioperative Practice
AORN. (current edition). Guidelines for perioperative practice. AORN.
Berry and Kohn's Operating Room Technique
Phillips, N., & Hornacky, A. (Eds.). (2021). Berry and Kohn’s operating room technique (14th ed.). Elsevier.
Alexander’s Care of the Patient in Surgery
Rothrock, J. C. (Ed.). (2023). Alexander’s care of the patient in surgery (17th ed.). Elsevier.
Penner’s Economics and Financial Management for Nurses and Nurse Leaders
Knighten, M. L., & Waxman, K. T. (Eds.). (2024). Penner’s economics and financial management for nurses and nurse leaders (4th ed.). Springer Publishing Company.
Operating Room Leadership and Management
Kaye, A. D., Urman, R. D., & Fox, C. J. III. (Eds.). (2019). Operating room leadership and management (2nd ed.). Cambridge University Press.
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CSSM Exam Preparation
CSSM Exam Prep Kindle Edition
CSSM Exam Prep Bundle
CSSM Online Practice Exam
CSSM On-Demand Prep Course
CSSM Exam Prep
