Training activity information
Details
Prepare surgically retrieved sperm (SSR) for treatment and cryostorage
Type
Developmental training activity (DTA)
Evidence requirements
Evidence the activity has been undertaken by the trainee.
Reflection on the activity at one or more time points after the event including learning from the activity and/or areas of the trainees practice for development.
An action plan to implement learning and/or to address skills or knowledge gaps identified.
Considerations
- Method selection
- Witnessing requirements
- Chain of custody
- In-house SOPs
- Aseptic technique
- Infection control
- Record keeping and traceability
- Subsequent use and live birth outcome
- Patient consent for training and storage
- Viral screening requirements
- HFEA regulations and guidelines
Reflective practice guidance
The guidance below is provided to support reflection at different time points, providing you with questions to aid you to reflect for this training activity. They are provided for guidance and should not be considered as a mandatory checklist. Trainees should not be expected to provide answers to each of the guidance questions listed.
Before action
- What are the key steps and critical parameters involved in preparing SSR samples for treatment and cryostorage?
- Consider the specific insights you hope to gain from engaging with this activity, such as the nuances of handling SSR samples compared to ejaculated sperm, the specific techniques used for different treatment or cryostorage purposes, or potential challenges unique to SSR samples.
- Think about what you already know about sperm processing and cryopreservation. What are the specific aspects of SSR preparation that you want to understand better?
- Discuss this training activity with your training officer to ensure you understand the specific protocols, equipment, and quality control measures involved in SSR preparation.
- Consider possible technical challenges you might encounter, such as low sperm count, the presence of debris, or equipment malfunction. Think about how you might troubleshoot these issues or who you would seek assistance from.
- Identify how you feel about performing this technical procedure. Are you confident in your technical skills, or are there specific steps that you feel less comfortable with?
In action
- Pay attention to your actions as you perform the steps involved in preparing the SSR sample for treatment and cryostorage. How are you approaching each stage of the process? Why are you using these particular techniques and handling the sample in this way? Is this any different to methods used for ejaculated semen samples?
- What decisions are you making as you progress through the preparation? For instance, how are you adjusting parameters based on the initial assessment of the sample?
- What aspects of the preparation feel intuitive based on your training, and what steps require more conscious attention and precision?
- How effective are your actions in ensuring the sample is processed correctly for its intended use (treatment or cryostorage)? Are you monitoring the sample appropriately throughout the process?
- What technical challenges are you facing during the preparation? Are there any unexpected issues arising with the sample or the equipment?
- What can you learn about SSR preparation techniques and troubleshooting as you perform this activity? Are there any critical steps that require particular attention?
- How does this procedure connect to your understanding of sperm biology, cryopreservation principles, and the requirements for assisted reproductive technologies?
- Are there alternative preparation methods you could consider if the initial approach is not yielding the desired results or if the sample presents differently than anticipated?
- What support or guidance might you need in this moment if you encounter difficulties or are unsure about a particular step? For example, would consulting laboratory protocols or a senior embryologist be necessary?
- Are you working within established protocols and your level of competence for this procedure?
On action
- Begin by summarising the key steps you took in preparing the SSR for treatment and cryostorage.
- What were the critical stages of the procedure?
- What were the characteristics of the sample you were working with (e.g., volume, initial motility)?
- What equipment and consumables did you use?
- Were there any deviations from the standard protocol or any unexpected observations during the preparation?
- What skills or knowledge did you develop or improve related to the specific techniques for handling and preparing SSR?
- Were there any unexpected challenges or successes during the procedure?
- What did you learn from these, such as difficulties in isolating sperm or achieving optimal preparation for cryostorage?
- In what ways did your reflection-in-action (during the procedure) influence your technique or decision-making?
- How does this experience relate to the regulatory HFEA framework for sperm preparation and cryopreservation?
- What areas for continued development have been identified, such as refining specific technical skills or improving efficiency in the process?
- How can you apply the learning from this activity to future SSR preparation procedures?
- Identify the actions you will now take to support the assimilation of what you have learned, such as reviewing relevant SOPs or seeking further training on specific techniques.
- What support or resources might you need to further develop your skills in this area, such as more hands-on practice or guidance from experienced colleagues?
Beyond action
- Have your understanding of the technical aspects or potential challenges evolved?
- Revisit reflections from this and other training activities. Have you identified any overarching themes related to technical proficiency or adherence to protocols?
- Engage in discussions with colleagues about their experiences with SSR preparation. Has this provided new insights or alternative approaches to consider?
- Recognise how this technical activity contributes to your broader understanding of gamete handling and preparation within the assisted reproductive technologies. How has this experience supported your development in other related technical tasks?
- How have you applied the specific skills and knowledge gained from preparing SSR in subsequent laboratory work? How has your technical ability in this area developed since the original training activity?
- Identify the transferable laboratory and technical skills you are developing through this training activity that will be valuable in your ongoing professional development.
- Identify clear actions for continued development of your SSR preparation skills, potentially including further training or focusing on specific aspects of the procedure.
Relevant learning outcomes
| # | Outcome |
|---|---|
| # 1 |
Outcome
Perform sperm preparation for use in treatment within the regulatory HFEA framework. |
| # 2 |
Outcome
Perform sperm cryopreservation, thawing and warming within the regulatory HFEA framework. |
| # 7 |
Outcome
Practice in accordance with quality management and regulatory standards. |
| # 8 |
Outcome
Demonstrate safe and effective practice, minimising risk to all staff and patients. |