module specification

This module provides an in-depth understanding and knowledge of the theory and practice of transfusion and transplantation.  Investigating the scientific principles of immunology, microbiology, haematology and medical technology which underlie the practice of transfusion and transplantation, with attention to current trends and research. The module also explores the ethical issues associated with transfusion and transplantation.

Standard entry requirement: Lower second (2.2) first degree, or equivalent, in Biomedical Sciences or a related subject containing elements of transfusion science.

The aims of this module are:
to critically review the scientific principles of immunology, microbiology, haematology and medical technology which underlie the practice of transfusion and transplantation.
Demonstrate how these principles are applied to contemporary clinical and laboratory practice both for service provision and research.
Examine the evidence for use, and limitations of, the common procedures used in the diagnosis and management of patients and donors.
Outline the principles of quality management and the principles of health and safety management relating to transfusion and transplantation science.
Examine the ethical issues in transfusion and transplantation.
In conjunction with the above, the module will develop students' ability to appraise, research, critically evaluate, formulate and present a debate on a topical issue in this field.

Includes all aspects of blood transfusion medicine including immunology and genetics of blood group systems, the functions and utilisation of blood and its components, therapeutic procedures related to disease treatment, blood collection and component production, automated blood collection, cellular therapies, transplantation immunology, pre-transfusion testing and regulations, and quality assurance.

Students' knowledge and understanding of transfusion and transplantation science will be developed through a programme of lectures and supporting exercises, together with the guided use of student centred learning resources. Online lectures will be used to provide a conceptual framework. Student centred assignments; including the execution of a substantial dissertation assignment will enable students to reinforce and expand their knowledge and develop subject skills and competence.
Activities include: Online lectures (22 hours), tutorials and seminars materials (16 hours), computer based learning, formative and summative assessments, other activities including: learning diaries; independent learning tasks; library searches.  These activities when summarised in the form of learning diaries can form the basis of a student’s comprehension of their personal development portfolio (162 hours of self study by the student).

On successful completion of the module the student should be able to:
1. Critically review published papers, summarising and analysing the findings relating to transfusion and transplantation practices and demonstrate a critical appreciation of transfusion theory related to laboratory and clinical practice
2. Debate the ethical issues relating to transplantation and transfusion science and complete coursework demonstrating a deep understanding and broad practical experience of a range of laboratory techniques.
3. Demonstrate a critical awareness of current issues within the role of practicing health care scientists in clinical and diagnostic Blood Sciences, particularly Transfusion Science and provide a critical and balanced review on a research topic appropriate to transfusion science.

The module will be summatively assessed by means of a progress test component (40% of the overall mark), poster presentation (20% of overall mark) and final exam (40% of the overall mark). The coursework will consist of a progress test including directed reading topics. There will be online formative assessments that provide formative feedback. Summative diagnostic assessment will also be provided by a progress test.
To pass the module students need to achieve a minimum aggregate mark of 50%.

Contreras, M. (ed) (2008), ABC of Transfusion, 4th edition. British Medical Journal Publishing Group.
Daniels, G., and Bromilow, I. (2010) Essential Guide to Blood Groups. 2nd edition. Wiley-Blackwell
Hadley, A., and Gillan, H.R. (2007), An Introduction to Cell and Tissue Transplantation Science British Blood Transfusion Society
Halberstadt, C., and Emerich, D.F. (2007), Cellular Transplantation: From Laboratory to Clinic. Academic Press
Knight, R. (2011). Transfusion and Transplantation Science. OUP Oxford.
Lewis, S. M., Bain, B. J. and Bates, I. (2006), Dacie and Lewis Practical Haematology, 10th edition, Churchill Livingstone.
McClelland, D.B.L. and NHS Blood and Transplantation. (2007) Handbook of Transfusion Medicine. 4th edition. Stationary Office.
Male, D., Brostoff, J., Roth, D., and Roitt, I.  (2006), Immunology, 7th edition, Mosby.
Murphy, M.F., and Pampillion, D.H.(2009). Practical Transfusion Medicine. 3rd edition. Wiley-Blackwell. 
Overfield, J., Dawson, M., and Hamer, D. (2008) Transfusion Science 2nd edition, Scion.
Quigley,E.D. (2010) Immunohematology: Principles and Practice. 3rd edition. Lippincott Williams and Wilkins. 
Whitlock, S.A. (2009). Immunohematology for Medical Laboratory Technicians. Delmar.