MCE5200 - ART laboratory operations and management - 2019

This unit provides students with a detailed understanding of how to establish and equip an IVF laboratory and the quality control and quality assurance practises required to run an effective IVF service. New insights into the quality management framework for an embryology laboratory will allow students to understand and develop techniques for continuous quality improvement in their future workplaces, and to achieve ambitious goals. Knowledge gained in this unit is readily transferable into other areas of laboratory and research activities. Students will have the opportunity to visit IVF laboratories during a designated 'work experience' week and observe how they operate, what techniques are used and which services are offered. A report and an informal presentation (not assessed) on their site visit will enable students to share their experiences and compare the differences in techniques and practices between clinics.

Upon successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

1. Apply key concepts of total quality management in an ART laboratory setting
2. Justify the selection and validation of equipment for an ART laboratory
3. Design an ART laboratory considering personnel, equipment and layout
4. Propose solutions when laboratory troubleshooting is initiated
5. Describe how sample and patient witnessing is integrated into the IVF laboratory
6. Evaluate national and international guidelines and regulation for ART practice

• Group presentation: Designing an ART laboratory (15 minute presentation) (40%) (hurdle)
• Written report: Implementing change in an ART laboratory (1,500 words plus SOP design) (30%)
• Written report: Troubleshooting and SOP development (1,500 words) (25%)
• Written reflection of clinic placement (5%)

For on-campus students, this unit is conducted over the first four weeks in Semester 2.

It is expected that students attended all lectures and tutorials associated with this unit.

For off-campus students all material is accessible online during Semester 2.

Expect 18 hours per week of directed and self-directed learning over a four week block.

See also Unit timetable information

Clinical embryology

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