Laboratory aspects of reproductive science

Details

Title

Laboratory aspects of reproductive science

Type

Stage One

Module code

HLS312

Requirement

Compulsory

Module objective

By the end of the training period trainees will, in respect to the techniques used in the laboratory aspects of reproductive science, obtain a working knowledge of the scientific, clinical and technical aspects of Reproductive Science to be able to:

• analyse, synthesise, evaluate and apply knowledge
• perform a range of technical and clinical skills and procedures
• demonstrate the attitudes and behaviours necessary for professional practice as a consultant clinical scientist dealing with the complexities, uncertainties and tensions of professional practice at this level.

Knowledge and understanding

By the end of the training period the trainee will be able to demonstrate the ability to analyse, evaluate and synthesise relevant knowledge and its application to their professional practice in relation to:

• the detection, identification and analysis of gametes, zygotes and embryos at all stages of pre- implantation development
• the metabolic requirements of gametes, zygotes and embryos at all stages of pre-implantation development and the importance of the in vitro environment
• the role of pre-implantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) and screening (PGS), and interpretation of results
• infertility investigation, diagnosis, compilation and evaluation of reports
• different laboratory techniques for the procurement, handling, processing, micromanipulation and storage of gametes, zygotes and embryos
• the methods of insemination used in reproductive science
• systems for ensuring the quality assurance of all procedures, processes and reagents
• validity and reliability of treatments and their application
• the principles of optimal use of laboratory equipment, tissue culture, aseptic technique and troubleshooting investigations
• new technologies and novel techniques in reproductive science
• the importance of the laboratory design to support reproductive science and the role of multidisciplinary working to optimise the reproductive science service
• the importance of links between reproductive science laboratories and other clinical specialties
• the scientific principles underpinning research
• the research process and application of statistical techniques for analysing and interpreting data
• critical evaluation and analysis of peer-reviewed publications

Technical and clinical skills

By the end of the training period the trainee will be able to demonstrate a critical understanding of current relevant research, theory and knowledge and its application to the performance of the following technical procedures and laboratory skills:

• detection, identification and analysis of gametes, zygotes and embryos at all stages of pre- implantation development
• optimal culture of gametes, zygotes and embryos
• micromanipulation of gametes, zygotes and embryos
• morphological assessment of gametes and embryos and assessing their suitability for treatment
• optimal use of gametes, zygotes and embryos to maximise treatment outcome
•  laboratory techniques:
• • conventional techniques for gamete preparation and gamete and embryo handling, including micromanipulation
  • reference laboratory referral where appropriate
• systems for ensuring the quality assurance of diagnostic tests and clinical procedures
  • assessment, interpretation and reporting of clinical outcomes
  • use of appropriate internal controls and monitoring performance
  • internal quality assurance
  • external quality assurance
  • principles of validation
  • performance of clinical audit
• validity and reliability of test results and their application
  • understanding the uncertainty of measurement
  • using systems to produce timely, accurate and relevant laboratory reports with appropriate interpretative comments.

By the end of the training period the trainee will be able to apply knowledge of the techniques used in the laboratory aspects of reproductive science, to perform the clinical skills necessary to manage under supervision:

• advise appropriately on the tests required to investigate the potential cause of infertility and/or the most appropriate assisted reproduction treatment required.