Becoming a Certified Perioperative Nurse (CNOR) is a significant step in a registered nurse’s career. As a perioperative nurse, you play an essential role in ensuring surgeries are performed smoothly, with minimal risks. This certification not only proves your expertise in perioperative care but also opens up new career opportunities in hospitals, surgical centers, and more. Furthermore, it can boost your earning potential by over $1,000 annually. However, preparing for the CNOR exam can feel overwhelming. It requires in-depth knowledge of medical terminology, surgical procedures, patient care practices, and more. To make sure you’re fully prepared, enrolling in a comprehensive CNOR prep course is crucial. These courses offer study materials tailored to help you ace the exam and feel confident in your role as a perioperative nurse.
Key Takeaways
- CNOR certification is a valuable credential that can expand career opportunities and increase your salary.
- Thorough preparation is essential to passing the CNOR exam and mastering the necessary knowledge.
- Choosing the right prep course can make all the difference in your exam success.
Let’s dive into some of the best CNOR prep courses available so you can find the perfect fit to help you pass the exam and start your career in perioperative nursing.
1. Mometrix University Certified Perioperative Nurse Prep Course (Rank #1)
Mometrix University offers a standout Certified Perioperative Nurse (CNOR) prep course that provides aspiring perioperative nurses with the tools and resources they need to succeed. Known for its comprehensive and user-friendly approach, Mometrix combines structured lessons, interactive study aids, and ample practice materials to help you feel confident and prepared for your CNOR exam. The course is designed to cater to a variety of learning styles and offers a risk-free opportunity to try out the materials with a 1-week money-back guarantee.
Course Overview
This CNOR prep course includes over 800 practice questions, 300+ digital flashcards, and 60+ structured lessons designed to cover all topics on the CNOR exam thoroughly. Mometrix’s approach makes learning accessible by breaking down complex concepts into manageable lessons that you can study at your own pace. With the ability to review materials on your own time, you’ll be able to focus on weak areas and reinforce strong points for optimal exam preparation.
Key Features:
- 800+ Practice Questions: These are essential for testing your knowledge in realistic scenarios. Each question includes a detailed explanation of why the answer is correct, helping you build a deeper understanding of the material.
- 300+ Digital Flashcards: Perfect for quick reviews, these flashcards help with memorizing critical terminology, definitions, and concepts that are key to the CNOR exam.
- 60+ Structured Lessons: These lessons break down topics systematically, covering all areas needed for the CNOR exam in an easy-to-digest format.
- 1-Week Money-Back Guarantee: If you’re not satisfied with the course, Mometrix offers a full refund within one week, providing peace of mind when you sign up.
Pros
1. Comprehensive Study Materials
Mometrix University provides a well-rounded selection of study resources, making it a one-stop shop for exam preparation. The 800+ practice questions, 300+ flashcards, and 60+ lessons cover a wide range of topics necessary for the CNOR exam. This level of content diversity ensures you have everything you need to study thoroughly.
2. Highly Engaging Content
The course materials are designed to keep you engaged with an interactive approach that prevents boredom and increases retention. The lessons are clear and concise, and the content is delivered in an easy-to-understand format, which is essential for those who might have limited time or a busy schedule. The course’s engaging approach helps maintain focus and motivation throughout your study sessions.
3. Variety of Learning Methods
Mometrix’s course is perfect for different learning preferences. Whether you prefer reading, visualizing, or practicing hands-on, you’ll find study materials that suit your style. The combination of written lessons, digital flashcards, and practice questions ensures you can learn in the way that best fits you. This versatility makes the course a great choice for both auditory and visual learners.
4. Time-Efficient
For busy professionals or nurses balancing work and study, Mometrix’s course structure is designed to save time. The lessons are broken down into manageable sections, and the practice questions are concise but focused on key areas, helping you cover all necessary material without spending unnecessary time on irrelevant topics.
5. Risk-Free Enrollment
The 1-week money-back guarantee is one of the course’s standout features. If you’re unsure whether the course is right for you, you can try it risk-free. If, after using the materials, you decide the course doesn’t meet your needs, you can receive a full refund. This policy makes it easier for nurses to commit to the course without fear of wasting money if it doesn’t work for them.
Cons
1. Requires Self-Discipline
As a self-paced, online course, Mometrix University requires you to manage your study schedule. You must be self-motivated and disciplined to stay on track, as no instructor is pushing you along. For some learners, this lack of external accountability can lead to procrastination or inconsistent study habits.
2. Limited Interaction with Instructors or Peers
Although the course offers extensive written and interactive study materials, it lacks live instruction or peer interaction. Some students may prefer to ask questions or discuss topics in real-time with instructors or fellow learners. This can be especially challenging for complex topics where clarification is needed, leaving students to rely on the materials provided.
3. No Live Support
While the course offers detailed resources and a money-back guarantee, there is no live support available. If you encounter difficulties or need further explanation, you’ll need to rely on the provided materials or seek help elsewhere. Live support can be crucial for those who have specific questions or want personalized guidance, which Mometrix does not provide.
4. Overwhelming for Some Learners
With the large volume of study materials provided—over 800 practice questions and 300 flashcards—the course may feel overwhelming, especially for those who are new to studying for nursing certifications. For learners who may struggle with managing large amounts of information, it could take more time to work through the content thoroughly and effectively.
5. Not Tailored to Individual Needs
While Mometrix University offers a broad range of materials, the course doesn’t provide personalized study plans or individualized feedback based on your strengths and weaknesses. If you need targeted help or a customized approach to certain topics, this course might not be sufficient on its own. It’s a great option for general preparation, but it doesn’t cater to those needing focused, personalized study strategies.
Bottom Line
Mometrix University’s Certified Perioperative Nurse Prep Course is a top contender for nurses looking to pass the CNOR exam and start a rewarding career in perioperative nursing. Its comprehensive selection of study materials, engaging content, and risk-free enrollment make it an excellent choice for most learners. Although it requires self-discipline and lacks live support, the course’s clear structure and diverse learning resources are designed to cater to different learning styles. If you’re looking for a well-rounded, flexible, and effective prep course, Mometrix University is a highly recommended option for CNOR exam preparation.
2. Zander Perioperative Education CNOR Training Course (Rank #2)

Zander Perioperative Education offers a focused and specialized study program tailored specifically for nurses preparing for the Certified Perioperative Nurse (CNOR) exam. With an emphasis solely on perioperative nursing, Zander provides in-depth, targeted study materials that ensure you are thoroughly prepared for all sections of the exam. Whether you need a quick review or a more extended study period, Zander’s flexible access plans make it easier for nurses to fit exam preparation into their busy schedules.
Course Overview
Zander’s CNOR Training Course is designed to provide comprehensive support for your exam preparation. With 200 practice questions, multiple practice quizzes, and bonus content for perianesthesia, this course ensures that you are well-prepared for all areas of the CNOR exam. Zander offers flexible study access options, allowing you to choose between 60 or 120 days of access, depending on how much time you need. This course is ideal for nurses looking for a streamlined, focused program without unnecessary distractions.
Key Features:
- 200 Practice Questions: A well-rounded set of practice questions covering various topics essential for the CNOR exam. Each question is designed to mirror the format and difficulty of the actual exam.
- 7-15 Practice Quizzes: These quizzes help reinforce key concepts and test your knowledge across different subjects. You can take these quizzes as many times as needed to gauge your progress.
- 60 or 120 Days of Access: Choose between two flexible access plans that fit your study timeline. This flexibility ensures you can study at your own pace, whether you need a quick review or an extended study period.
- Bonus Content for Perianesthesia: Special study resources dedicated to the perianesthesia section, which is known to be a tricky area for many candidates.
Pros
1. Specialized Content for Perioperative Nurses
Zander’s CNOR course focuses exclusively on perioperative nursing, making it highly specialized for those pursuing the CNOR certification. This level of specificity ensures that every study material is relevant to the CNOR exam without wasting time on unrelated topics. Nurses can feel confident that their efforts are concentrated on the most important material.
2. Comprehensive Set of Practice Materials
With 200 practice questions and 7-15 practice quizzes, Zander offers a variety of testing formats to help you reinforce your knowledge. These materials mirror the structure and difficulty level of the actual CNOR exam, making them valuable for gaining exam experience and confidence. The quizzes also allow for repeated testing, helping you master key concepts before the real test.
3. Bonus Content for Perianesthesia
The perianesthesia portion of the CNOR exam is known for being particularly challenging. Zander provides bonus content specifically dedicated to this section, offering a deeper dive into the complex concepts surrounding perianesthesia. This targeted study material ensures that you’re well-prepared for one of the trickier parts of the exam.
4. Flexible Study Access
Zander offers two access options—60 days or 120 days—so you can choose the study timeline that works best for you. Whether you prefer a quick study session or need a longer, more thorough preparation period, this flexibility allows you to customize your study plan to fit your needs and schedule.
5. Focused and Efficient Learning
By specializing only in perioperative nursing and CNOR exam content, Zander eliminates unnecessary distractions and irrelevant material. This focus ensures that you can devote your study time to exactly what you need, resulting in a more efficient learning experience. Nurses can avoid getting sidetracked by extraneous topics and focus on excelling in the areas that matter most for the CNOR exam.
Cons
1. Limited Practice Questions
While 200 practice questions are provided, some students may find this quantity to be insufficient compared to other CNOR prep courses that offer a larger set of practice questions. Although the questions cover a wide range of topics, a more extensive question bank would provide additional opportunities for practice and help solidify knowledge even further.
2. No Live Support
Zander’s CNOR course is entirely self-paced, with no live instructor or support available. While this setup allows for flexible learning, it may pose challenges for students who prefer real-time assistance with difficult questions or concepts. Without live support, those who require immediate clarification may find themselves feeling stuck or frustrated.
3. No Personalized Feedback
Although Zander provides practice questions and quizzes, there is no personalized feedback on your performance. You’ll need to assess your progress and identify areas of weakness based on your results, but the lack of tailored guidance could make it harder to pinpoint specific areas for improvement. Some learners may prefer a course that offers more personalized insight or coaching.
4. Focus on Exam-Only Content
While the CNOR exam preparation is thorough, the course focuses primarily on preparing for the test itself, with little emphasis on broader perioperative nursing skills or real-world application. Nurses looking for more holistic, practical training or continuing education beyond the exam might find this approach too narrow in scope.
5. Limited Access to Study Materials
Zander offers two access plans—60 and 120 days—but some students may prefer more extended access, especially if they need extra time to review or revisit topics before the exam. While 120 days is generous for many learners, those who prefer longer study periods might feel restricted by the time limitations.
Bottom Line
Zander Perioperative Education’s CNOR Training Course is an excellent choice for nurses seeking a specialized, focused study plan tailored specifically to the CNOR exam. With its in-depth practice materials, bonus content for perianesthesia, and flexible study access options, this course offers thorough preparation for the exam. While it may not have the extensive question bank or live support found in other courses, its focused content ensures you are well-equipped to tackle the CNOR exam. If you want a streamlined, no-frills approach to studying, Zander Perioperative Education is a great option.
3. Nurse Builders Certified Perioperative Nurse Review Course (Rank #3)

The Nurse Builders Certified Perioperative Nurse Review Course takes a more hands-on, multifaceted approach to CNOR exam preparation, designed for those who prefer a variety of learning methods. From practical questions to audio lectures and in-person options, this course allows learners to absorb information in a way that suits their learning styles. With the flexibility to engage in different formats, Nurse Builders helps you prepare for the CNOR exam through both independent and collaborative learning experiences.
Course Overview
The Nurse Builders course includes more than 150 practice questions designed to mimic the CNOR exam’s format, allowing students to practice in real exam conditions. With 7-13 contact hours available, the course contributes to your professional development as you study. In addition, audio lectures are included for those who prefer auditory learning, making it easy to listen and learn while on the go. For those who prefer hands-on or in-person instruction, Nurse Builders offers onsite courses, which are perfect for group study. This course’s diversity in learning methods ensures that there is something for every learner, whether you study alone or in a group.
Key Features:
- 150+ Practice Questions: These practice questions mirror the CNOR exam format, providing you with an authentic preview of the actual test. Each question is crafted to cover essential exam topics and test your knowledge effectively.
- 7-13 Contact Hours: The course includes contact hours that count toward your professional development, which is essential for maintaining nursing credentials and advancing your career.
- Audio Lectures: These convenient lectures are great for auditory learners, allowing you to listen to key information while commuting, exercising, or during other activities.
- Onsite Instruction: For those who prefer face-to-face learning, Nurse Builders offers onsite courses where instructors provide direct guidance and interaction, ideal for learners who need more personalized attention.
- Group Discounts: Nurse Builders offers group discounts, making it a cost-effective option for study groups or colleagues working toward the CNOR certification together.
Pros
1. Diverse Learning Formats
Nurse Builders excels in providing a variety of learning formats, including practice questions, audio lectures, onsite instruction, and contact hours. This variety allows students to choose the format that best suits their learning preferences, ensuring a personalized study experience. Whether you prefer studying independently or through direct interaction, Nurse Builders has you covered.
2. On-the-Go Learning with Audio Lectures
For auditory learners, the inclusion of audio lectures is a standout feature. These lectures allow students to absorb information passively while engaged in other activities, such as commuting or exercising. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for busy professionals who need to make the most of their time.
3. In-Person Learning Options
Nurse Builders offers onsite instruction, which is a valuable option for students who thrive in a classroom environment and prefer direct interaction with instructors. This hands-on approach provides the opportunity for immediate clarification of concepts and more personalized guidance, which can be a crucial advantage for learners who need more structured support.
4. Group Discounts
Another major benefit of the Nurse Builders course is the availability of group discounts. If you and your colleagues or study group members are preparing for the CNOR exam together, enrolling as a group allows you to save money while learning collaboratively. This fosters a sense of community and can enhance the overall learning experience.
5. Contact Hours for Professional Development
In addition to preparing you for the CNOR exam, Nurse Builders offers 7-13 contact hours that contribute to your ongoing professional development. These contact hours are essential for nurses looking to maintain their certifications and advance their careers, adding value beyond just exam preparation.
Cons
1. Requires Time Commitment for Onsite Instruction
While onsite instruction offers great benefits, it requires additional time and commitment to attend in-person classes. For nurses with busy schedules or those who live far from the course locations, attending these classes may be difficult, making it less accessible for some learners.
2. Limited Availability of Onsite Courses
Nurse Builders offers onsite courses, but these may not be available in all locations or at all times. This limited availability can be a drawback for students who prefer or require in-person instruction but do not live near a course location. As a result, some learners may not be able to take advantage of this feature.
3. Audio Lectures May Not Be Sufficient for All Learners
While audio lectures are a fantastic resource for auditory learners, they may not be sufficient for everyone. Visual learners or those who prefer more interactive methods may find the audio lectures alone to be less effective. These learners may need to rely more on practice questions or onsite instruction to fill in the gaps.
4. Practice Questions May Be Too General for Some Learners
Although the 150+ practice questions are helpful for general exam preparation, some students might find them to be too broad or not specific enough to their weak areas. While the questions are aligned with the CNOR exam format, they might not delve deeply into all the nuances and complex topics covered in the test, requiring additional resources for more comprehensive practice.
5. May Not Offer Advanced Content for Experienced Learners
For more experienced nurses or those already familiar with many of the CNOR exam topics, the course may feel too basic. While it provides a solid foundation for preparation, more advanced learners may find the content lacking in depth and might need to seek supplementary materials to address more complex subjects.
Bottom Line
The Nurse Builders Certified Perioperative Nurse Review Course is ideal for learners who thrive in a variety of learning formats. With its combination of practice questions, audio lectures, onsite instruction, and contact hours, the course offers a flexible and engaging way to prepare for the CNOR exam. Although it requires a time commitment for onsite classes and may not provide deep content for advanced learners, Nurse Builders is a well-rounded option for most learners, especially those looking for a diverse and interactive approach to exam preparation. Whether you’re an auditory learner, prefer in-person instruction, or are preparing with a study group, Nurse Builders offers valuable resources to help you succeed.
4. ExamEdge CNOR Study Materials (Rank #4)

ExamEdge is a prime option for those who excel in learning through practice and repetition. If you’re looking for an exam preparation strategy that revolves around simulated testing, this is the course for you. With its focus on realistic practice exams, ExamEdge helps you replicate the CNOR exam experience, allowing you to assess your knowledge and pinpoint areas that need improvement. Whether you need to build confidence or drill down into specific topics, ExamEdge’s approach is designed for learners who thrive in a hands-on, test-oriented environment.
Course Overview
ExamEdge’s CNOR study materials are all about practice and repetition. The course offers 1,500 practice questions across 1-15 full-length exams designed to reflect the actual CNOR exam format. These exams simulate the real testing environment, providing you with a comprehensive review of what to expect. After each exam, you’ll receive detailed explanations for every answer, helping you understand your mistakes and reinforcing the material for future success. The option to retake exams up to four times per attempt further strengthens your exam preparedness, ensuring you can improve your score through consistent practice.
Key Features:
- 1-15 Full-Length Practice Exams: These practice exams mimic the actual CNOR exam, giving you a true-to-life experience of what to expect on test day.
- 1,500 Practice Questions: With such a large question bank, you’ll have ample opportunity to practice and test your knowledge, reinforcing key concepts and strategies.
- 4 Retakes per Exam: Each practice exam can be retaken up to four times, which allows you to keep refining your performance until you feel confident.
- Detailed Answer Explanations: After each exam, you’ll receive thorough explanations for both correct and incorrect answers, enabling you to understand your errors and learn from them.
Pros
1. Extensive Practice Question Bank
ExamEdge stands out with its impressive 1,500 practice questions spread across 1-15 full-length practice exams. This extensive question bank ensures you’re thoroughly tested on every aspect of the CNOR exam, from the most basic concepts to more complex scenarios. With so many questions, you can reinforce your knowledge through repetition and gradually improve your performance.
2. Simulated Exam Experience
The real strength of ExamEdge lies in its ability to simulate the CNOR exam environment. The full-length practice exams are structured to resemble the actual test, helping you become familiar with the format, pacing, and pressure of the real exam. This simulation can help reduce anxiety and increase your test-taking confidence, as you’ll know exactly what to expect when exam day arrives.
3. Retake Options for Better Mastery
With the ability to retake each exam up to four times, ExamEdge gives you the opportunity to review and refine your knowledge continuously. This feature allows you to track your progress, learn from previous mistakes, and improve your performance over time. Repetition is key to retaining information, and the retake options ensure that you have plenty of chances to master the material.
4. In-Depth Answer Explanations
After completing each practice exam, you’ll receive detailed answer explanations that break down why your answers were right or wrong. These explanations are invaluable for learning the material thoroughly and understanding the reasoning behind the correct answers. By grasping the rationale for each question, you can improve your test-taking strategy and avoid repeating the same mistakes.
5. Ideal for Drill-and-Practice Learners
If you learn best through repetition and active recall, ExamEdge is the perfect course for you. Its primary focus on practice exams and questions make it an excellent choice for individuals who need hands-on experience to solidify their knowledge. The more you practice, the more confident you’ll become in tackling the real CNOR exam.
Cons
1. Lack of Interactive Study Resources
While the course excels in providing practice exams, it lacks other forms of interactive learning, such as video lessons or real-time instructor feedback. If you prefer a more diverse study experience with different learning modalities, this could feel limiting. The focus is primarily on drilling questions rather than offering varied resources for different learning styles.
2. No Structured Lessons
Unlike some courses that provide step-by-step structured lessons, ExamEdge is primarily focused on practice exams. While these exams are valuable for reinforcing knowledge, they don’t offer comprehensive lessons that break down complex topics or concepts. Some learners may feel they need more guided instruction in addition to the practice exams.
3. Not Ideal for Beginners
ExamEdge is best suited for those who are already familiar with the material and want to practice their test-taking skills. If you are new to the CNOR exam or the subject matter, you may find the lack of introductory lessons or foundational materials challenging. The course assumes a basic understanding of the exam content, so it may not be the best starting point for those who need more thorough explanations.
4. Limited Progress Tracking
While ExamEdge provides multiple retakes of each practice exam, there is limited tracking of your overall progress across the different exams. If you’re looking for detailed feedback on areas of weakness or a more comprehensive analysis of your performance, you might need to supplement this course with additional tools or resources to track your improvement in greater detail.
5. Costly for Some Learners
ExamEdge’s extensive question bank and retake options come at a premium price, which may not be suitable for everyone. For those on a budget, the cost could be prohibitive, especially since other courses may offer similar features at a lower price point. While the course is thorough, the price tag could be a concern for some learners looking for more affordable options.
Bottom Line
ExamEdge’s CNOR study materials are an excellent choice for individuals who prefer to prepare for their exams through repetition and practice. With its large question bank, simulated exam environment, and multiple retake options, this course offers solid preparation for the CNOR exam. However, it’s not ideal for beginners or those seeking interactive lessons, and the cost may be prohibitive for some learners. Overall, if you thrive in a practice-driven environment and are looking to drill key concepts until they’re second nature, ExamEdge is a strong resource to consider for your CNOR exam preparation.
5. Competency & Credentialing Institute CNOR Study Guide (Honorable Mention)

The Competency & Credentialing Institute (CCI) offers a variety of valuable resources for nurses pursuing CNOR certification. While their course options may not be as expansive as some of the larger prep providers, CCI excels in offering supplementary materials that help you stay updated with the latest healthcare trends and strengthen your exam preparation. If you prefer a combination of live webinars, free textbooks, and a more condensed study format, CCI is a great option for those looking for additional support during their CNOR exam preparation.
Course Overview
CCI’s CNOR Study Guide includes a range of resources that can assist nurses in staying current with best practices while preparing for the CNOR exam. The 2-day virtual prep course provides live, interactive sessions that can supplement your study routine, while free access to textbooks and practice questions helps you understand the content in greater depth. Additionally, CCI offers live webinars every month on relevant healthcare topics, allowing you to gain expert insights and stay informed on industry trends.
Key Features:
- Several Live Webinars Every Month: These webinars allow nurses to stay updated with the latest healthcare trends, exam preparation strategies, and tips from experts. It’s an excellent resource for staying current while preparing for the CNOR exam.
- Free Textbooks and Exam Prep Handbook: CCI offers free access to essential textbooks and an exam prep handbook that provides valuable insights and guidance throughout your CNOR preparation process.
- 5 Free Practice Questions: CCI gives you a preview of the exam format with five free practice questions, allowing you to start practicing and familiarize yourself with the types of questions you may encounter on the CNOR exam.
- 2-Day Virtual Prep Course: This short, live virtual course is perfect for those needing last-minute preparation or additional help. It’s an excellent option for reviewing key topics and reinforcing important concepts before your exam.
Pros
1. Supplementary Learning Opportunities
CCI’s CNOR Study Guide offers a wealth of supplementary materials that complement other forms of study. Whether you’re looking for additional webinars, practice questions, or textbooks, CCI provides resources that help you stay informed and deepen your understanding of relevant topics. The live webinars provide valuable, real-time learning opportunities that can enhance your study routine.
2. Free Access to Essential Resources
One of the standout benefits of CCI’s CNOR study materials is the free access to textbooks and an exam prep handbook. These resources are invaluable for those looking to supplement their studies without additional cost. CCI’s free materials ensure that you have the necessary tools to guide your studies, even if you’re on a budget.
3. Live Interaction with Experts
The live webinars and virtual prep course provide you with direct access to healthcare professionals and educators. This interactive aspect allows you to ask questions, clarify doubts, and gain insights from experienced practitioners who can help you navigate your exam preparation with up-to-date strategies.
4. Ideal for Last-Minute Review
For nurses who are pressed for time, the 2-day virtual prep course offers a compact yet effective review of the essential material needed for the CNOR exam. This condensed format allows you to focus on critical concepts and get any last-minute clarifications before the exam, making it a great resource for time-strapped learners.
5. Up-to-Date Industry Insights
CCI’s monthly webinars keep you informed about current healthcare practices and trends, ensuring that you’re not only preparing for your CNOR exam but also staying ahead in the field. This ongoing professional development can be highly beneficial for your career, even after you’ve obtained certification.
Cons
1. Limited Comprehensive Study Materials
While CCI offers valuable supplementary resources, it doesn’t provide as comprehensive a study guide as some other CNOR prep courses. If you’re looking for a full range of practice questions or in-depth lessons that cover every single topic on the exam, this course might not offer everything you need. Some students may require more extensive preparation materials.
2. Less Structured Learning Path
The CCI CNOR Study Guide offers excellent additional resources but lacks a clear, structured path for exam preparation. If you’re someone who thrives on a well-organized, step-by-step guide, you might find the absence of a detailed study plan a bit challenging. The free materials and webinars can sometimes feel disjointed without a clear sequence to follow.
3. Short Virtual Prep Course
Although the 2-day virtual prep course is ideal for a quick review, its condensed format may not provide enough time to dive deeply into every necessary topic. For nurses looking for an extended or more thorough review, this short course may not provide the level of detail or repetition needed for thorough mastery.
4. Limited Practice Questions
With only five free practice questions available, the amount of practice you can do with CCI is minimal compared to other prep courses that offer hundreds or even thousands of practice questions. While these questions provide an introduction to the exam format, you may need to seek additional resources to ensure you have a sufficient number of practice questions to fully prepare.
5. Limited Personalized Feedback
The course offers some degree of interaction through webinars, but there’s limited one-on-one interaction or personalized feedback for your specific study needs. If you need targeted assistance or more individualized support, CCI may not provide the level of personalized coaching or feedback that other courses offer.
Bottom Line
The Competency & Credentialing Institute CNOR Study Guide is an excellent resource for nurses looking to supplement their study routine or stay updated with current healthcare trends. While it may not offer as comprehensive a selection of study materials as other providers, its live webinars, free textbooks, and condensed virtual prep course make it an ideal choice for those seeking additional resources or last-minute exam preparation. If you’re looking for a flexible, supplementary approach to CNOR exam prep, CCI is a great option.
6. Nurse.com CNOR Prep Course (Honorable Mention)

Nurse.com is not specifically designed for CNOR exam preparation. However, it stands out as a top resource for perioperative nurses who want to maintain certification and continue professional development. The platform offers various continuing education (CE) courses to keep perioperative nurses up to date with the latest advancements in the field. Nurse.com focuses on providing high-quality, accessible, and interactive education. This is essential for any nurse committed to lifelong learning. By combining flexible online courses with networking opportunities, Nurse.com helps nurses stay at the forefront of their practice after obtaining their CNOR certification.
Course Overview
The Nurse.com CNOR Prep Course is a continuing education platform that offers 16 1-hour courses. These courses cover various aspects of perioperative nursing, helping nurses maintain their certification and expand their knowledge. The platform not only provides education but also encourages networking with other nurses, offering a community to share insights and support professional growth. Each course is taught by experienced subject matter experts, ensuring high-quality content that’s both current and relevant to the perioperative field.
Key Features:
- 16 1-Hour Continuing Education Courses: These short courses are designed to help you stay current with new developments, trends, and best practices in perioperative nursing.
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with other nurses in the perioperative field, allowing for valuable peer discussions and insights.
- Printable Transcripts: Once you complete each course, you’ll receive a transcript for your records, providing proof of your continuing education efforts.
Pros
1. Comprehensive Continuing Education
Nurse.com provides a robust suite of 16 continuing education courses, which ensures that nurses have access to a broad spectrum of topics relevant to their ongoing professional development. These courses cover various aspects of perioperative nursing, making it easier to stay updated with the latest practices and industry standards.
2. Flexible Learning
The courses are each 1 hour long, offering flexibility for busy nurses. This format allows you to fit in learning sessions at your convenience, whether during breaks or after work. The online nature of the courses also means that you can access them from anywhere, making them highly adaptable to your schedule.
3. Taught by Experts
Each course is taught by subject matter experts who bring a wealth of practical knowledge and experience. The expertise of the instructors ensures that the content is not only accurate but also relevant and based on real-world experience, which is valuable for nurses looking to deepen their knowledge and skills.
4. Networking with Peers
Nurse.com’s networking opportunities offer a great platform for nurses to connect with others in the same field. Sharing knowledge, discussing challenges, and exchanging tips with colleagues can be incredibly beneficial, especially for nurses who work in isolated settings or wish to expand their professional network.
5. Official Transcripts
Upon completing each course, you will receive a printable transcript. This feature allows nurses to keep track of their continuing education and maintain a well-documented record of their professional development, which is useful for audits or personal tracking.
Cons
1. No Initial CNOR Exam Prep
Unlike other courses that focus on preparing you for the CNOR exam, Nurse.com does not offer materials or study resources specifically geared toward passing the CNOR exam. Therefore, it’s not ideal for nurses who are in the process of preparing for their initial certification.
2. Limited Course Variety
While the 16 courses available are helpful for ongoing education, Nurse.com’s selection might feel limited compared to other platforms that offer a wider variety of CNOR prep options. Nurses looking for more extensive or advanced topics may find the course offerings insufficient for their needs.
3. No Personalized Learning Plan
Nurse.com provides a set of pre-determined courses without offering a personalized study or learning plan. For nurses who need more tailored guidance, particularly those who have specific learning preferences, the lack of customization may hinder their ability to fully optimize their continuing education.
4. Focuses Primarily on Maintenance, Not Certification
Nurse.com is excellent for keeping your knowledge updated and meeting continuing education requirements for maintaining your CNOR certification. However, it does not address the initial certification process or provide direct assistance with the CNOR exam. Nurses in the preparatory stages of their certification will need to look elsewhere for comprehensive study materials.
5. May Not Be Suitable for New Nurses
Nurse.com is geared more toward experienced perioperative nurses who have already obtained their CNOR certification. New nurses or those who are still preparing for their certification may not find this platform as helpful. The courses are focused on ongoing education, which may not be ideal for those still learning foundational perioperative concepts.
Bottom Line
Nurse.com is a fantastic resource for perioperative nurses who have already passed their CNOR exam and want to stay updated on the latest trends and advancements in the field. While it doesn’t offer initial CNOR exam preparation, its wide array of continuing education courses, networking opportunities, and expert-led content makes it an invaluable tool for professional development. If you’re looking to maintain your certification and deepen your understanding of perioperative nursing, Nurse.com is an excellent option. However, those still in the process of preparing for the CNOR exam may need to look at other platforms for more targeted support.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is CNOR certification, and why is it important?
CNOR (Certified Perioperative Nurse) certification shows a nurse’s expertise in perioperative care. It’s awarded by the Competency & Credentialing Institute (CCI). CNOR certification is important because it demonstrates a nurse’s skills in surgery-related tasks. It enhances career prospects and increases earning potential. Certified nurses are in demand for their specialized abilities in the operating room.
2. How can I prepare for the CNOR exam?
To prepare for the CNOR exam, enroll in a prep course like those from Mometrix University or Nurse Builders. These courses offer practice exams, study guides, and flashcards. They break down the exam’s complex topics. Reviewing the CNOR exam content outline is also essential. This ensures you cover all necessary areas of knowledge.
3. How long should I study for the CNOR exam?
Study time for the CNOR exam varies. Most candidates spend 3 to 6 months preparing. If you already know some of the material, you might need less time. Dedicate several hours each week to studying. Consistency and regular practice exams help track your progress.
4. What are the main topics covered in the CNOR exam?
The CNOR exam covers:
- Preoperative care
- Intraoperative care
- Postoperative care
- Patient safety
- Surgical instruments
- Infection control
- Anesthesia procedures
Each prep course targets these areas. They help you understand each topic in-depth.
5. Are online CNOR prep courses as effective as in-person courses?
Yes, online CNOR prep courses can be very effective. They offer interactive lessons, video content, and practice questions. Many courses mirror in-person programs in structure and material. You can learn at your own pace. Flexibility is a big advantage of online courses.
6. What are the benefits of CNOR certification once I pass the exam?
After passing the CNOR exam, nurses gain better career opportunities and higher pay. Many employers prefer CNOR certification. It can lead to leadership roles and increased job responsibilities. Certified nurses are seen as experts in perioperative care, leading to more recognition and respect.
Conclusion
Becoming a Certified Perioperative Nurse through the CNOR exam is a valuable career milestone for nurses who want to advance their expertise and contribute more effectively to surgical teams. To pass the exam, investing in a high-quality CNOR prep course is crucial, and there are several excellent options available, including Mometrix University, Zander Perioperative Education, and Nurse Builders. Each course offers a different set of features to cater to various learning preferences, from practice questions and flashcards to structured lessons and bonus content.
Whether you’re a seasoned nurse looking to expand your skills or a newer nurse aiming to specialize in perioperative care, a CNOR prep course can provide the resources and confidence you need to pass the exam. The time, effort, and investment you make in preparing for the CNOR exam can pay off in the form of career advancement, higher earnings, and a greater ability to provide safe and effective care in the operating room.