Training activity information
Details
Take consent to store a gamete sample from a patient who is considering gender reassignment including a supportive conversation around future options
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.
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 specific information needs to be provided to a patient considering gender reassignment to obtain valid consent for gamete storage?
- What are the potential future options for the use of stored gametes for this patient group?
- How will this activity enhance your skills in taking consent in a sensitive and complex situation?
- What are the key considerations when having a supportive conversation about fertility preservation options with transgender individuals?
- Will you review the specific consent forms and information leaflets related to gamete storage?
- Have you considered the potential emotional and psychological aspects for a patient undergoing gender reassignment who is also considering fertility preservation?
- Discuss with your training officer appropriate language and approaches for this type of conversation.
In action
- How are you explaining the consent process for gamete storage? What information are you providing about the duration of storage, potential future use, and implications? How are you offering a supportive conversation about their options in the context of gender reassignment?
- Is the patient understanding the consent form and the implications of storage? Are you effectively addressing their questions and concerns? Are you providing appropriate emotional support? What are you learning about taking consent in this specific context?
- Are you tailoring your communication to the individual’s circumstances and understanding of the gender reassignment process? Are you aware of any specific sensitivities or support needs they might have?
On action
- How did you approach the consent process in this specific context, considering the patient’s gender reassignment journey? What information did you provide regarding the storage of the gamete sample, potential future use, and the implications of consent? How did you structure the supportive conversation around the patient’s future options for fertility preservation in relation to their gender transition? What specific concerns or questions did the patient raise during the consent process and the supportive conversation?
- What did you learn about taking consent in a sensitive and complex situation, such as gender reassignment and fertility preservation? How effective were you in providing clear and comprehensive information while also offering appropriate support and addressing the patient’s emotional needs? Did you consider any specific legal or ethical considerations relevant to this situation?
- How will you approach similar consent processes in the future, ensuring sensitivity and appropriate support for patients considering gender reassignment? Are there any specific resources or guidance you should consult to enhance your ability to provide comprehensive and supportive care in these situations? How can you further develop your communication skills to effectively address the unique needs of this patient group?
Beyond action
- Reflect on how your understanding of the specific considerations and sensitivities involved in taking consent for gamete storage from transgender individuals has evolved.
- Compare your approach to this supportive conversation with what you have learned about the psychosocial aspects of gender transition and fertility preservation.
- Has attending a gender dysphoria clinical service provided new perspectives on how to best support these patients?
- How has this early experience of communicating with and supporting transgender patients influenced your approach to ensuring inclusive and person-centred care in all your interactions?
- Have you applied the skills learned in providing supportive conversations around future options in other sensitive consent processes?
- Consider how this DTA has contributed to your ability to explain procedures to patients, facilitating understanding for informed consent.
- Identify transferable skills in sensitive communication, understanding diverse patient needs, and navigating complex ethical considerations that will be essential in your future practice. What further learning needs regarding the specific needs and challenges faced by transgender individuals seeking fertility preservation have you identified by reflecting on this DTA?
Relevant learning outcomes
| # | Outcome |
|---|---|
| # 2 |
Outcome
Practice safely in accordance with the statutory and regulatory framework. |
| # 3 |
Outcome
Explain procedures to patients, facilitating understanding to enable informed consent to be provided. |
| # 4 |
Outcome
Apply and adapt skills to communicate effectively with patients and the multidisciplinary team. |