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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CSSM 180 Questions
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Study and Preparation

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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.

Text Book

Guidelines for Perioperative Practice

AORN. (current edition). Guidelines for perioperative practice. AORN.

Text Book

Berry and Kohn's Operating Room Technique

Phillips, N., & Hornacky, A. (Eds.). (2021). Berry and Kohn’s operating room technique (14th ed.). Elsevier.

Text Book

Alexander’s Care of the Patient in Surgery

Rothrock, J. C. (Ed.). (2023). Alexander’s care of the patient in surgery (17th ed.). Elsevier.

Text Book

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.

Text Book

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 Resources

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CSSM Certification Webinars

Learn more about exam subject areas and test-taking strategies.

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CSSM Exam Study Outline

Develop a personalized study plan with CCI's free preparation tool.

CSSM Handbook

CSSM Handbook

The complete guide to the CSSM credential.

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CSSM Practice Questions

Explore the format and structure of CSSM exam questions.

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CSSM Exam Preparation

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CSSM Exam Prep Kindle Edition

CSSM Exam Prep Bundle

CSSM Exam Prep Bundle

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CSSM On-Demand Prep Course

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CSSM Exam Prep