MANSFIELD — An OhioHealth Mansfield Hospital nurse has earned the top score in the nation on the 2024 Certified Perioperative Nurse (CNOR) credentialing exam.
According to the Competency and Credentialing Institute’s website, more than 4,200 nurses took the exam last year. Zoe Kalb BSN, RN, CNOR tied with two others to achieve the highest score.
The CNOR exam is the only accredited certification for perioperative registered nurses.
According to Kalb, this certification was just as much about patient care as it was about forwarding her education and career.
“This certification allows me to proudly display my dedication and commitment to my patients and provide high-quality patient care,” Kalb asid. “The study materials gave me a deep dive into current, evidence-based care and up to date AORN [Association of Perioperative Registered Nurses] guidelines that are the basis for the care we provide and the policies our hospital implements.
“Equipped with this knowledge, I feel I am better able to advocate for my patients, patient safety, and have the knowledge to support the care decisions I make.”
While Kalb seems to be an exemplary nurse, Chief Nursing Officer Elizabeth Daniels M.Ed, BSN, CENP says she’s an example of the quality of nurses at Mansfield Hospital.
“This is another example of our nursing team striving for continuous improvement to provide excellent care,” Daniels said.
“Zoe’s commitment to invest in her professional growth, and in turn prioritizing the patient, shows the caliber of nurses here at OhioHealth Mansfield Hospital. These qualities helped earn us Magnet designation in 2023 and I continue to be incredibly proud watching our team grow.”
Magnet designation is the highest and most prestigious distinction a healthcare organization can receive for nursing excellence and high-quality patient care.
Magnet Recognition® has many benefits- not just for nurses who provide care, but also for the patients who receive that care.
Kalb encourages all nurses to get certified.
“Certification in nursing is an amazing opportunity to grow professionally, support your lifelong learning, and strive towards nursing excellence,” Kalb said.
OhioHealth makes it easy for its nurses to get certified. The hospital system reimburses many test costs through department funds. It also provides financial support through scholarships.
Kalb accepted her award at the Competency and Credentialing Institute Board Dinner in Boston over the weekend.
Her plaque reads, “CNOR highest test score 2024.”