Training activity information
Details
Perform ICSI
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
- In-house standard operating procedures
- Polar body position and oocyte maturity
- Dish set up
- Damage rates
- Aseptic technique
- Culture conditions
- Use of media
- Troubleshooting
- Witnessing requirements
- Patient consent for training
- HFEA regulations
- Record keeping and traceability
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 critical steps involved in the ICSI procedure?
- What level of proficiency in performing ICSI do you aim to achieve through this activity?
- Have you thoroughly reviewed the step-by-step ICSI protocol used in your laboratory?
- Are you familiar with potential risks and complications associated with ICSI?
- What are the specific quality control measures to be followed during and after the procedure?
- How will you improve your fine motor skills and precision in micromanipulation?
- What challenges do you anticipate facing during different stages of the ICSI procedure?
- Have you practiced each step of the ICSI procedure using non-viable materials or under simulation?
- What mental preparation or focus techniques will you employ before and during the procedure?
In action
- Pay attention to each step of the ICSI procedure, from immobilising the sperm to injecting it into the oocyte. How are you ensuring precision and control during each micromanipulation?
- What decisions are you making regarding the orientation of the oocyte, the entry point of the needle, and the speed and force of injection?
- What aspects of the ICSI procedure feel more natural, and what requires careful attention to detail and technique?
- How effectively are you able to perform each step of the ICSI procedure? Are you encountering any technical difficulties?
- What challenges are you facing, such as manipulating the oocyte or avoiding damage during injection?
- What can you learn about optimising your ICSI technique as you perform the procedure?
- How does this activity integrate your knowledge of oocyte and sperm biology and micromanipulation skills?
- Are there adjustments you need to make to your technique based on the characteristics of the specific oocyte or sperm?
- What support or guidance might you need if you encounter unexpected difficulties during the ICSI procedure?
- Are you maintaining a sterile working environment and adhering to the laboratory protocols?
On action
- Summarise the key steps of the ICSI procedure that you performed. What were the critical manipulations involved? What aspects of the ICSI procedure were particularly noteworthy, such as the handling of the oocyte or the injection of the sperm?
- What micromanipulation skills did you develop or improve through performing ICSI? Did you gain a better understanding of the forces and movements required? Were there any unexpected challenges or successes during the procedure? What did you learn from these events, such as difficulties with oocyte viability or successful injection? How did your reflection-in-action during the ICSI procedure influence your technique or decision-making? Did you make any adjustments in real-time? How does this experience relate to the principles and practice of ICSI and the aim of achieving fertilisation?
- What areas for continued development in your ICSI technique have been identified? Do you need to focus on specific aspects like needle control or oocyte handling? How will you apply this learning to future ICSI procedures? Will you make any changes to your approach? What ‘next steps’ will you take to enhance your ICSI skills, such as seeking feedback or further training? What support or resources might be beneficial for your ongoing development in this area?
Beyond action
- Reflect on your initial attempts and compare them to your current technique, noting areas of improvement in precision and speed. Consider how the foundational skills learned in setting up equipment and sperm catching contributed to your ICSI performance. Review reflections from instances of successful and unsuccessful fertilisation following ICSI to identify factors that may have played a role. Discuss variations in ICSI techniques and best practices with experienced embryologists – has this broadened your understanding?
- Recognise that performing ICSI is a core skill in embryology and these training activity are fundamental to your competence. How has your efficiency, confidence, and success rate in performing ICSI evolved since these initial experiences? How has this practical experience informed your understanding of potential risks and critical control points in the ICSI procedure in your wider practice?
- Identify the highly specialised technical skills you are developing through this activity. Define how you will continue to develop your ICSI skills through ongoing practice, feedback, and staying updated with advancements in the field.
Relevant learning outcomes
| # | Outcome |
|---|---|
| # 1 |
Outcome
Perform micromanipulation techniques. |
| # 3 |
Outcome
Practice safely in accordance with the statutory and regulatory requirements of micromanipulation and cryopreservation. |