Director/Moderator: Janice Davis-Sproul, MAS, MT(ASCP)SBB, Manager, Cell Therapy Laboratory, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions

Faculty: Timothy L. Gehris, MT(ASCP), Lead Clinical Laboratory Scientist, Tissue and Cellular Therapies, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics; Lynn O’Donnell, PhD, Director, BMT Laboratory, James Cancer Center, Ohio State University

Intended Audience: Technologists, Managers/Supervisors

Objectives:

• Describe cleaning methods for biological safety cabinets (BSCs) and laboratories.
• Discuss a risk-based approach to cleaning cell therapy laboratories.
• Identify the issues associated with disaster planning for cell therapy laboratories.
• Understand methods to assure product safety during a disaster.

Event Description: Two years after implementation of cGTP regulations, what lessons have been learned and what procedures are routine? The presentation will focus on recommendations for laboratory cleaning practices. All hospitals have disaster planning, but what are the special needs of the Cell Therapy Laboratory? This lecture will address considerations for mother-nature and man-made disasters as they relate to cell therapy laboratories—the products, equipment, and staff.

Event Level: Basic to Intermediate

*Cellular therapy-focused audioconference.

Content for this program was developed in cooperation with the International Society for Cellular Therapy (ISCT).

Why Donor/Patient Counseling is Needed for Chagas
January 17, 2007
2:00 pm to 3:30 pm (ET); 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm (GMT)
Program # 074565

Directors: Kim-Anh Nguyen, MD, PhD, Medical Director, Blood Centers of the Pacific-Irwin Center; Jennifer Rhamy, MBA, MA, MT(ASCP)SBB, HP, Vice President, Laboratory Services, Indiana Blood Center

Faculty: Michael P. Busch, MD, PhD, Vice President, Research, Blood Systems Research Institute; David Leiby, PhD, Chief of Parasitology, American Red Cross

Intended Audience: Physicians, Technologists, Nurses, Managers/Supervisors, Perfusionists

Objectives:

• List the signs and symptoms of the different stages of Chagas infection.
• Describe currently available tests for T. cruzi, including the antibody ELISA test developed for blood donor screening.
• Discuss the key aspects of impending implementation of a T. cruzi antibody donor screening assay in US blood centers.

Event Description: Chagas’ Disease is becoming an increasing health concern in the United States as immigrants from endemic countries now comprise significant segments of the US population. This audio conference will cover the epidemiology of Chagas’ Disease and the potential impact on the US blood supply. The speakers will discuss currently available T. cruzi antibody assays and the impact of implementing such tests for all blood and tissue donors.

Event Level: Intermediate

Unannounced AABB Assessments
January 25, 2007
2:00 pm–3:30 pm (ET); 7:00 pm–8:30 pm (GMT)
Program # 074595
 
This program is for AABB Accredited Facilities Only

Moderator: Kathleen J. Sazama, MD, JD, Professor, Laboratory Medicine, UT MD Anderson Cancer Center and Chair, Accreditation Program Committee

Faculty: Holly Rapp, MT(ASCP)SBB, CQA(ASQ)CQMgr, Director, Accreditation and Quality, AABB; Judy Sullivan, MS, MT(ASCP)SBB, CQA(ASQ), Manager, Accreditation Programs, AABB

Intended Audience: Accreditation Contacts and Medical Directors of AABB Accredited Facilities (only Accredited Facilities can register!)

November 30th program for facilities to be assessed in 2007

January 25th program for facilities to be assessed in 2008
 
Objectives:

• Discuss changes in accreditation processes resulting from the implementation of unannounced assessments
• Explain the process for managing AABB-CAP coordinated assessments
• Develop strategies for preparing and managing an unannounced AABB assessment

Event Description:
Environmental pressures have caused many accrediting organizations to move to unannounced assessments, and AABB has not been immune to these pressures.  This program will review the AABB accreditation process and describe the process changes that will occur with unannounced assessments.  Issues such as AABB-CAP coordinated assessments, blackout dates, timeframes, and requirements will be discussed.  Facilities will be provided with strategies and suggestions to successfully manage unannounced assessments.

Registration for November 30th program closes November 27

Registration for January 25th program closes January 22

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Director/Moderator: Lynn A. Emmert, MEd, MT(ASCP)SI, CLS(NCA), Technical Education & Quality Support Supervisor, Puget Sound Blood Center

Faculty: Linda L. Mains, MA, Organization and Training Consultant

Intended Audience: Technologists, Nurses, Managers/Supervisors, CEOs/CFOs

Objectives:

• Learn how to become more comfortable communicating with people about problems in a manner that creates opportunities for positive outcomes.

• Understand how the power of constructive feedback comes from recognition of positive results.
• Identify “hot buttons” that may produce defensive responses.

Event Description: This audioconference will provide communication tools to positively influence the performance of your employees, co-workers and team members. The speaker will discuss how to communicate in a straightforward way that can be received non-defensively. The value of the skill of increasing performance is based upon “one of the best established findings in the research literature. That is, the facilitative effect of knowledge of results upon performance.” (Kim & Hamner, Journal of Applied Psychology, 1976.)

Event Level: Basic

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Neonatal Transfusions
February 7, 2007
2:00 pm to 3:30 pm (ET); 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm (GMT)
Program # 074567

Director/Moderator: Jennifer Rhamy, MBA, MA, MT(ASCP)SBB, HP, Vice President, Laboratory Services, Indiana Blood Center

Faculty: Naomi Luban, MD, Director, Transfusion Medicine, Children’s Hospital National Medical Center; Steven Sloan, MD, PhD, Medical Director, Children’s Hospital Boston

Intended Audience: Physicians, Technologists, Nurses, Managers/Supervisors

Objectives:

• Specify the additives commonly used for neonatal transfusions.
• Identify the appropriate choice of ABO for platelet products transfused to neonates.
• List the pros and cons of CMV negative components versus leukoreduction for prevention of CMV-transmission from transfusion.
• Name the most common indications for transfusions of RBC, platelets, and plasma to the neonatal population.

Event Description: This audio conference focuses on the unique transfusion needs of the neonatal population. The first speaker will review the criteria for transfusion in this population, exploring the differences from other patient populations. The speakers will then focus on the choices of blood products for these patients, including anticoagulant options and cytomegalovirus-safe blood.

Event Level: Intermediate to Advanced

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Introducing the 2nd edition of Standards for Cellular Therapy Product Services*
February 28^th, 2007
2:00 pm–3:30 pm (ET); 7:00 pm–8:30 pm (GMT)
Program # 074596

Director/Moderator: Zbigniew M. Szczepiorkowski, MD, Ph.D Director, Cellular Therapy Center, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center

Faculty: Janice Davis, MAS, MT(ASCP)SBB, Manager, Cell Therapy Laboratory, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions; Doug Padley, MT(ASCP), Development Coordinator, Mayo Clinic; Donna M. Regan, MT(ASCP)SBB, Manager, St. Louis Cord Blood Bank, SSM Cardinal Glennon Children's Medical Center

Intended Audience: CEOs/CFOs, Physicians, Technologists, Medical Directors, Managers/Supervisors, Nurses, Residents/Fellows and Students

Objectives:

• Identify and implement the requirements of the 2nd edition of Standards for Cellular Therapy Product Services.
• Describe the significant changes made to the Standards
• Understand the rationale for new and changed requirements based on emerging science or new practices

Event Description: This session will give a detailed overview of the 2nd edition of Standards for Cellular Therapy Product Services, which will go into effect March 1, 2007.  The speakers will summarize the new and revised requirements incorporated into the 2nd edition of Standards.  In addition, the rationale for the changes will be reviewed.  Ample time for questions will be available.

Event Level: Intermediate

*Cellular therapy-focused audioconference.

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Cellular Therapy Products — Collection by Apheresis*
March 7, 2007
2:00 pm to 3:30 pm (ET); 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm (GMT)
Program # 074568

Director: Zbigniew M. Szczepiorkowski, MD, PhD, Medical Director, Transfusion Medicine Service, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center

Faculty: Jeffrey Winters, MD, Director, Donor Services/Therapeutic Apheresis Unit, Mayo Clinic-Rochester; Zbigniew M. Szczepiorkowski, MD, PhD, Medical Director, Transfusion Medicine Service, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center

Intended Audience: Physicians, Technologists, Nurses, Managers/Supervisors

Objectives:

• Identify the most common variables in apheresis collection impacting the quality of the cellular therapy product.
• Understand the relationship between the characteristics of the apheresis product and patients’ outcome.
• Describe the current regulations and accreditation standards most relevant to apheresis centers collecting cellular therapy products.
• Learn the most common problems with labeling of cellular therapy components.

Event Description: This event will highlight the impact of the quality of HPC apheresis product on the recipient’s outcome, and discuss the most common problems encountered during apheresis collection and their impact on the product characteristics. The session will also discuss examples of the current regulations and their impact on daily activities of apheresis centers collecting cellular therapy products. The most common regulatory problems will be discussed and examples of potential solutions will be presented.

Event Level: Intermediate to Advanced

*Cellular therapy-focused audioconference.

Content for this program was developed in cooperation with the American Society for Apheresis (ASFA).

Blood Conservation: Innovations, Challenges and Future Directions
March 14, 2007
2:00 pm to 3:30 pm (ET); 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm (GMT)
Program # 074569

Director: Virginia Hughes, MS, MT(ASCP)SBB, CLS(NCA), Assistant Professor, Auburn University

Moderator: Timothy J. Hannon, MD, MBA, Medical Director, Blood Conservation Program, St. Vincent Hospital Indianapolis

Faculty: Nancy Chance, MLT(ASCP)RMT, Area Coordinator of Blood Bank and Bloodless Medicine and Surgery Coordinator, Riverview Hospital; Rochelle M. Strong, RN, BS, MA, CNOR, Director Surgical Services, Riverview Surgery Center

Intended Audience: Physicians, Technologists, Nurses, Managers/Supervisors, Perfusionists

Objectives:

• Understand the necessity for blood conservation and its need for global attention.
• Learn the resources essential for launching a successful blood conservation program by forging a strong collaborative alliance between surgical services and blood banks.
• Identify barriers, challenges, and solutions during the process of establishing a successful blood conservation program.
• Quantify outcomes through appropriate reporting channels.

Event Description: This audioconference will provide an overview of blood conservation implementation and outcome assessment in a perioperative setting. First hand experience of “Platelet Gel” and its applications in blood conservation will be discussed.

Event Level: Intermediate

Donor Hemoglobin
March 28, 2007
2:00 pm to 3:30 pm (ET); 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm (GMT)
Program # 074570

Director: Dennis Harpool, MT(ASCP)SBB, Vice President Procedures, Development, and Training, Blood Systems, Inc.

Faculty: Ritchard Cable, MD, Scientific Director, American Red Cross, Northeast Division; Alan Mast, MD, PhD, Investigator, Blood Research Institute and Associate Medical Director, Medical Services, Blood Center of Wisconsin

Intended Audience: Physicians, Technologists, Nurses, Managers/Supervisors

Objectives:

• Identify causes of donor deferral for low Hb/Hct and discuss appropriate communications to donors deferred for low Hb/Hct.
• Understand how blood donation impacts iron metabolism, iron stores and Hb/Hct levels.
• Comprehend ways to prevent deferral due to low Hb/Hct.

Event Description: This session will discuss appropriate communications to donors deferred for low Hb/Hct. In addition, the speakers will present biochemical, genetic and behavioral characteristics of donors able to donate at high frequency levels (five to six times per year) without being deferred due to low Hb/Hct.

Event Level: Intermediate

What To Do About Weak D
April 11, 2007
2:00 pm to 3:30 pm (ET); 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm (GMT)
Program # 074571

Director/Moderator: Teresa Harris, MT(ASCP)SBB, CQIA(ASQ), Associate-Immunohematology Reference Lab-Operation Support, American Red Cross

Faculty: W. John Judd, FIBMS, MIBiol, Professor of Immunohematology, University of Michigan

Intended Audience: Physicians, Technologists, Managers/Supervisors

Objectives:

• Understand the fundamental differences between weak and partial D.
• Describe strategies to decrease RhD alloimmunization in partial D patients.
• Discuss the impact of transfusion strategies for partial D patients on the supply of Rh-negative blood.

Event Description: Weak D and partial D are not equivalent—both have different ramifications in patient and donor testing. This session will highlight the different protocols for weak D testing in the patient and donor populations. Current Rh typing reagents react differently with the partial and weak D phenotypes. Discussion will include strategies to prevent alloimmunization in the partial D patients and the impact of those strategies on the blood supply. Case studies will be presented to highlight the discussion.

Event Level: Intermediate to Advanced

Staff Competency
April 18, 2007
2:00 pm to 3:30 pm (ET); 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm (GMT)
Program # 074572

Director: Kathleen M. Connolly, Director of Public Relations, Rhode Island Blood Center Moderator: Carol Perry, MT(ASCP), CQA(ASQ), Quality Assurance/ Compliance Officer, Rhode Island Blood Center

Faculty: Jill Drummond, Director, Training and Education, Blood Systems, Inc.; Judy Norcia, MT(ASCP)SBB, CQA(ASQ), Vice President of Quality Systems, Florida Blood Services, Inc.

Intended Audience: Technologists, Nurses, Managers/Supervisors, CEOs/CFOs

Objectives:

• Understand the resources needed for electronic management of training records.
• Describe the differences between competency and proficiency.
• List the steps to develop quality performance standards and competency assessment instruments.

Event Description: This session will define competency and proficiency, and will review regulatory requirements for training. In addition, it will describe the difference between skill- based and knowledge-based tasks and the most effective type of competency assessment for each.

Event Level: Intermediate

Recent Developments in Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation*
April 25, 2007
2:00 pm to 3:30 pm (ET); 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm (GMT)
Program # 074573

Director/Moderator: Marcel R.M. van den Brink, MD, PhD, Director Laboratory Science, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center

Faculty: Juliet N. Barker, MBBS (Hons), FRACP, Attending Physician, Adult Allogeneic Bone Marrow Transplantation, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center; Mary Evelyn D. Flowers, MD, Director, Clinical LTFU, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center; Katherine C. Hsu, MD, PhD, Adult Allogeneic Bone Marrow Transplantation Service, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center

Intended Audience: Physicians, Scientists, Technologists, Nurses, Managers/Supervisors

Objectives:

• Discuss the selection, use and results of single and double cord allografts for patients with hematological malignancies.
• Understand the update on recent results with extracorporeal photopheresis in patients with acute and chronic GvHD.
• Comprehend the results with adoptive NK therapies, as well as the role of KIR receptors and ligands in the anti-leukemic effects of NK cells.

Event Description: This audioconference will provide up-to-date information for three exciting new developments in allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation.

Event Level: Intermediate to Advanced

*Cellular therapy-focused audioconference.

Content for this program was developed in cooperation with the American Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation (ASBMT).

Validating Software to Ensure Patient Safety
May 9, 2007
2:00 pm to 3:30 pm (ET); 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm (GMT)
Program # 074574

Director: Cynthia White, MHA, SBB(ASCP) MT(AMT), Implementation Consultant, Mediware Information Systems

Faculty: Marsha Senter, ASCP, CQA(ASQ), Director,RA/QA, Mediware Information Systems

Intended Audience: Technologists, Managers/Supervisors, CEOs/CFOs

Objectives:

• Understand the expectations of regulating agencies as they relate to the processes that support the implementation, modification and maintenance of computer systems.

• Comprehend the expectations of documentation practices of support of computerized systems.
• Learn processes that ensure continuous operation of the services and prevent unauthorized access to computers and electronic records.

Event Description: The scope of computer systems is defined to include hardware, software, peripheral devices, personnel and documentation. Regulatory agencies recommend a practice of “risk-based” validation processes for ensuring the safety of electronically stored data. Regulatory and accrediting agencies have established standards and guidelines that relate to the process of implementing, modifying, and maintaining these systems and electronically stored data. This seminar will review some of the aspects of these recommendations and standards. The review will discuss processes of creating a validation plan for software validation and the expected outcomes of validating systems. Included in the discussion will be topics of the assurance of personnel competency and prevention of unauthorized access to computers and electronic records.

Event Level: Intermediate to Advanced

Management of Acute Transfusion Reactions
May 16, 2007
2:00 pm to 3:30 pm (ET); 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm (GMT)
Program # 074575

Director/Moderator: Jennifer Rhamy, MBA, MA, MT(ASCP)SBB, HP, Vice President, Laboratory Services, Indiana Blood Center

Faculty: Susan T. Johnson, MT(ASCP)SBB, Manager, Immunohematology Services, Blood Center of Wisconsin; Lynne Uhl, MD, Medical Director, Transfusion Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center

Intended Audience: Physicians, Technologists, Nurses, Managers/Supervisors, Perfusionists

Objectives:

• List the laboratory tests that are useful in making a diagnosis of a transfusion reaction and identify the standard treatment protocols for managing transfusion reactions.
• Using the flowchart developed by AABB’s SSCC, outline the process for investigating transfusion reactions.
• Name the required elements of a transfusion reaction investigation as defined by the governing/ accrediting agencies.

Event Description: This audioconference focuses on the management of acute adverse reactions to transfusion. The session will discuss following a flowchart protocol similar to the one found in the guidelines produced by AABB’s Scientific Section Coordinating Committee (SSCC). Emphasis will be placed on regulatory requirements for investigation of these reactions. In addition, the program will focus on the patient and clinical considerations when managing these adverse events.

Event Level: Intermediate

Preparing for Assessment by the European Union (EU)
May 23, 2007
2:00 pm to 3:30 pm (ET); 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm (GMT)
Program # 074576

Director/Moderator: Heather Russell, MBA, MT(ASCP)SBB, CQA(ASQ), Director, Education & Training, American Red Cross National Testing Lab

Faculty: Rebecca A. See, MS, MT(ASCP), CLS(NCA), Quality Source Consultant, BloodSystems; Laurel Anderson, MT (ASCP), Regional Quality Director, Blood Systems, Inc./Blood Centers of the Pacific

Intended Audience: Technologists, Managers/Supervisors, CEOs/CFOs

Objectives:

• Define the EU and what authority they have in the US.
• Explain the primary focus of the EU and how it differs from the AABB.
• Identify common findings made during an EU assessment.

Event Description: In today’s global marketplace, centers may find themselves facing an assessment by the EU.  This audioconference will define and explain the role of the EU authorities, the role of AABB and how facilities can best prepare for a successful experience. 

Event Level: Basic

ABO and Crossmatch-Incompatible Renal Transplantation: Why, How and the Role of Apheresis
June 13, 2007
2:00 pm to 3:30 pm (ET); 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm (GMT)
Program # 074577

Director: Jeffrey Winters, MD, Director Donor Services/Therapeutic Apheresis Unit, Mayo Clinic-Rochester

Faculty: James Gloor, MD, Associate Professor of Medicine and Pediatrics, Division of Nephrology, Mayo Clinic; S. Breanndan Moore, MD, FRCPI, Consultant, Division of Transfusion Medicine, Mayo Clinic Rochester; Jeffrey Winters, MD, Director Donor Services/Therapeutic Apheresis Unit, Mayo Clinic-Rochester

Intended Audience: Physicians, Scientists, Nurses

Objectives:

• Understand the rationale behind ABO and cross match incompatible renal transplantation and also the importance of patient selection in a successful ABO or cross match incompatible renal transplant.
• Learn the importance of ABO and HLA antibody titers in determining the time of transplantation and in guiding post-transplant therapy.
• Review testing methods used to determine the time of transplantation and to monitor patients after transplantation.

Event Description: Due to limitations in available organs and an inability to find HLA matched organs for patients highly sensitized to HLA, institutions have implemented living donor renal transplant programs involving ABO or cross match incompatible donors. These programs seek to provide the opportunity for transplantation to patients who are essentially “untransplantable” (patients highly alloimmunized to HLA) or who would wait for extended periods of time on organ waiting lists (blood group B or O candidates), experiencing the increased morbidity/mortality associated with dialysis. In order for these transplants to be successful, antibody titers are reduced prior to transplantation and in the immediate transplant period through a combination of immunosuppression, intravenous immunoglobulin, and plasma exchange. This presentation by three speakers involved in such a program will review the importance of patient selection and preparation, patient/donor testing, and plasma exchange in successful transplantation of incompatible kidneys. Protocols used by other institutions will also be discussed.

Event Level: Intermediate to Advanced

Issues in Platelet Transfusions
June 20, 2007
2:00 pm to 3:30 pm (ET); 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm (GMT)
Program # 074578

Director/Moderator: Jennifer Rhamy, MBA, MA, MT(ASCP)SBB, HP, Vice President, Laboratory Services, Indiana Blood Center

Faculty: James P. AuBuchon, MD, FCAP, FRCP(Edin), Professor and Chair of Pathology, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center; Jay Herman, MD, Transfusion Medicine Director, Thomas Jefferson University

Intended Audience: Physicians, Scientists, Technologists, Nurses, Managers/Supervisors

Objectives:

• Describe the survival and quality characteristics of 7-day platelets.
• Identify the current technologies associated with bacterial detection and their performance criteria.
• List pros and cons of providing ABO-compatible platelet products.
• Name factors that are important in choosing platelet products for individual patients.

Event Description: Are all platelets created equal for all patients? This program will determine how the new technologies are changing the platelets in the bag. The speakers will discuss considerations for selecting platelets—random versus apheresis, ABO compatibility and other topical issues.

Event Level: Intermediate

Storage and Stability Programs for Cell Therapy Products*
June 27, 2007
2:00 pm to 3:30 pm (ET); 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm (GMT)
Program # 074579

Director/Moderator: John D. McMannis, PhD, Director Cell Processing, UT M.D. Anderson Cancer Center

Faculty: Elizabeth J. Read, MD, Chief Cell Processing Section, National Institutes of Health; Angela Ondo, MT(ASCP), Quality Assurance Officer, Cell Therapy Laboratory, Johns Hopkins Hospital; Maria DeVito, Senior Director of QA/QC, Progenitor Cell Therapy, LLC

Intended Audience: Technologists, Managers/Supervisors

Objectives:

• Identify the issues associated with short-term storage of cell therapy products.
• Discuss current practices for shipping ‘fresh’ cell therapy products.
• Describe stability programs for cryopreserved cell therapy products.

Event Description: With the increased use of unrelated donor products, multiple product collections, and specialized cell processing procedures, short-term liquid storage of cell therapy products has become commonplace. Products need to be shipped from distant collection centers to processing laboratories and from centralized cell processing laboratories to clinical sites. Stability programs are now required for product storage (CT Standard 5.15.1.2). This audioconference will discuss on-site short-term storage, shipping fresh products and stability programs for cryopreserved products.

Event Level: Basic to Intermediate

*Cellular therapy-focused audioconference.

Content for this program was developed in cooperation with the International Society for Cellular Therapy (ISCT).

Update on Sickle Cell Disease Treatment
July 11, 2007
2:00 pm to 3:30 pm (ET); 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm (GMT)
Program # 074580

Director: Jennifer Rhamy, MBA, MA, MT(ASCP)SBB, HP, Vice President, Laboratory Services, Indiana Blood Center

Moderator: Paul Mintz, MD, Professor of Pathology/Internal Medicine, Director, Clinical Laboratories & Blood Bank, University of Virginia Medical Center

Faculty: Scott Miller, MD, Professor of Clinical Pediatrics and Director of the Inpatient Pediatric Services, SUNY Downstate Medical Center; Araba Afenyi-Annan, MD, MPH, Assistant Professor, Transfusion Medicine Service, University of North Carolina Hospitals

Intended Audience: Physicians, Technologists, Nurses, Managers/Supervisors, Perfusionists

Objectives:

• Identify the current treatments used for sickle cell patients to treat their disease including the use of hydroxyurea to limit transfusions.
• Describe the outcome of the STOP trials using trans-cranial Doppler and chronic transfusions to limit strokes in pediatric patients.
• Explain the benefits of phenotyping blood for sickle cell patients.
• Understand the benefits and considerations for RBC exchange versus transfusion therapy or alternate treatments for sickle cell patients.

Event Description: This audio conference focuses on today’s management of sickle cell patients. A clinician will discuss how these patients can be successfully managed by therapies in conjunction with transfusion, while another speaker will discuss options in selecting blood for these patients. The role of red cell exchange and antigen matching will both be reviewed.

Event Level: Intermediate to Advanced

Preparing for an Inspection in the Unannounced Era: CAP, FDA Internal QA, AABB, The Joint Commission
July 18, 2007
2:00 pm to 3:30 pm (ET); 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm (GMT)
Program # 074581

Director: Denise M. Harmening, PhD, MT(ASCP), CLS(NCA), Professor, University of Maryland School of Medicine

Faculty: Sharon Novak, MA MT(ASCP)SBB, Laboratory Administrator, Georgetown University Hospital; Teresita Schultz, Transfusion Medicine Manager, Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital and Technical Director, New Brunswick Affiliated Hospitals Blood Center; Mary Beth Bassett, BS, MT(ASCP), Vice President Quality Management/Regulatory Affairs, Blood Systems, Inc.

Intended Audience: Technologists, Managers/Supervisors

Objectives:

• Understand the various aspects of the preparation process in order to ensure that each staff member takes ownership and responsibility for assigned tasks.
• Present and use effective tools such as an internal “Self Assessment Outcome Analysis” to identify areas that require improvement.
• Comprehend the unannounced assessment/inspection as a means to validate the effectiveness of the quality management system and operational processes in place as well as the opportunity for improvement where applicable.
• Describe the approach to the inspection and the inspection process.

Event Description: This audioconference will enable participants to prepare for and successfully manage unannounced inspections and eliminate the need to panic when the inspectors arrive. A brief overview of key points to enable blood bank participants to prepare for a stress free unannounced assessment/inspection will be discussed. Experiences from AABB/CAP, The Joint Commission and FDA unannounced inspections will be presented.

Event Level: Intermediate

Red Cell Antigens: Molecular Structure, Function and Disease Association
July 25, 2007
2:00 pm to 3:30 pm (ET); 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm (GMT)
Program # 074582

Director/Moderator: Teresa Harris, MT(ASCP)SBB, CQIA(ASQ), Associate-Immunohematology Reference Lab-Operation Support, American Red Cross

Faculty: Connie Westhoff, PhD, MT(ASCP)SBB, Scientific Director, American Red Cross

Intended Audience: Physicians, Scientists, Technologists, Managers/Supervisors

Objectives:

• Identify the molecular structures associated with red cell antigens.
• Describe the association of red cell antigens and disease.
• Understand the functions of red cell antigens and their associated structure.

Event Description: Red cell antigens are located on structures that are an integral part of the red cell membrane. The structures, with their associated antigens, provide vital functions such as receptors, activators and transporters. This audioconference will explore the multiple aspects of red cell antigens and the associated membrane structures.

Event Level: Intermediate to Advanced

Advances in Unrelated Hematopoietic Stem Cell Donor Selection and Recruitment*
August 8, 2007
2:00 pm to 3:30 pm (ET); 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm (GMT)
Program # 074583

Director: John Miller, MD, PhD, Medical Director, National Marrow Donor ProgramModerator: Dennis Confer, MD, Chief Medical Officer, National Marrow Donor Program

Faculty: Michelle Setterholm, Director, Scientific Services, National Marrow Donor Program; Steve Spellman, MBS, Research Manager, Scientific Services, National Marrow Donor Program

Intended Audience: Physicians, Scientists, Technologists, Nurses, Managers/Supervisors

Objectives:

• Describe the basic biology and the role of HLA in unrelated hematopoietic stem cell transplantation.
• Discuss how advances in the understanding of the population genetics of HLA have been incorporated to enhance the NMDP’s donor/cord blood search algorithm HapLogic™.
• Review the potential use of Geo-coding, analysis of the geographical distribution of HLA genotypes, to assist in the targeted recruitment of volunteer donors.

Event Description: This program will provide a brief overview of the basic biology and role of HLA in unrelated hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and describe the impact of recent advances on the testing methodologies and strategies for unrelated donor and cord blood unit matching. The faculty will also describe the application of population genetics to target volunteers for donor registry recruitment and optimize donor selection for searching patients.

Event Level: Intermediate

*Cellular therapy-focused audioconference.

Content for this program was developed in cooperation with the National Marrow Donor Program (NMDP).

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Implementation of ISBT 128 for Cellular Therapy Collection and Processing Facilities*

August 15, 2007
2:00 pm to 3:30 pm (ET); 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm (GMT)
Program # 074597

Director/Moderator: Kathy Loper, MHS, MT(ASCP), Director of Cellular Therapies, AABB

Faculty: Phyllis Warkentin, MD, Medical Director, Transfusion and Transplantation, University of Nebraska Medical Center; Irene Feller, Med, SBB(ASCP), Director Tech Development & Coordination, American Red Cross; Linda Sledge, RN, HP(ASCP), Quality Manager, Duke University; Fran Rabe, ASQ, CQM, Regulatory/Compliance/Government Affairs, National Marrow Donor Program; Leigh Sims Poston, BS, MT(ASCP)..

Intended Audience: Physicians, Technologists, Managers/Supervisors, CEO’s

Objectives:

• Develop a basic understanding of ISBT 128 as it applies to cellular therapy products.
• Learn the multiorganizational coding and labeling advisory group recommendations for terminology and labeling.
• Share specific scenarios for implementation of ISBT 128 including donor and collection centers, processing labs and models of remote collection sites such as cord blood processing facilities.

Event Description: Much has been accomplished regarding a uniform system of product nomenclature and labeling in the blood product industry.  The International Cellular Therapy Coding and Labeling Advisory Group has completed its work including standardized terminology, sample labeling templates, and an implementation plan for those in the cellular therapy community.  This audioconference will provide a brief orientation to ISBT 128 and an overview of product terminology and sample labels. The main focus of the program will be on implementation, where unique challenges are anticipated due to the various models of cellular therapy collection and processing facilities.  Using a case study approach, survivors of successful implementation will share their facility experience.  Practical issues will be addressed including those of collection centers, National Marrow Donor Program (NMDP) donor and transplant centers, cord blood banks and processing labs.  Specific questions may be submitted in advance by August 1, 2007 to education@aabb.org.

This program is offered at no charge for AABB and ISCT institutional members.  The nonmember rate is $50 per site.

Event Level: Basic to Intermediate

*Cellular therapy-focused audioconference.

Content for this program was developed in cooperation with the International Society for Cellular Therapy (ISCT).

Purchase a copy of this presentation

Influenza-Avian Flu: Infection, Transmission, Risks in Transplantation
August 22, 2007
2:00 pm to 3:30 pm (ET); 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm (GMT)
Program # 074584

Director: Kim-Anh Nguyen, MD, PhD, Medical Director, Blood Centers of the Pacific-Irwin Center; Jennifer Rhamy, MBA, MA, MT(ASCP)SBB, HP, Vice President, Laboratory Services, Indiana Blood Center

Faculty: Philip Norris, MD, Associate Investigator, Director of Immunology, Blood Systems Research Institute

Intended Audience: Physicians, Scientists, Technologists, Nurses, Managers/Supervisors

Objectives:

• Identify the features of the influenza virus that are associated with virulence and the virus’ ability to elude the immune system.
• Describe some of the challenges in developing effective influenza vaccines.
• Distinguish between seasonal influenza and pandemic influenza.

Event Description: Pandemic influenza has been identified by many international and national health agencies as an emerging infectious threat and a potential worldwide health disaster. This audioconference will provide an overview of influenza virus biology and describe the features of avian, seasonal, and pandemic influenza. The program will focus on preparation for an influenza pandemic in health institutions and blood centers and outline elements of a pandemic flu disaster plan. AABB Task Force recommendations for donor management in the event of pandemic flu will be highlighted and discussed.

Event Level: Intermediate

Supplier Qualifications: Equipment-Reagents and Vendors
August 29, 2007
2:00 pm to 3:30 pm (ET); 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm (GMT)
Program # 074585

Director: Sally Rudmann, PhD, MT(ASCP)SBB, Professor and Director, The Ohio State University Medical Center

Faculty: Suzanne Butch, MA, MT(ASCP)SBB, CQA(ASQ), Administrative Manager, University of Michigan Hospitals; Mary A. Lieb, BS, MT(ASCP)SBB, CQA(ASQ), Quality Consultant, Quality Source

Intended Audience: Technologists, Managers/Supervisors, CEOs/CFOs

Objectives:

• List the requirements for vendor qualification.
• Develop forms for documenting the vendor qualification process.
• Select a vendor qualification process suitable for reagents, supplies and product manufacturing.

Event Description: Implementing a policy for qualification of vendors has been a difficult task. When is a site visit appropriate? What kind and how much documentation is needed? How often should it be repeated? Using a case study approach, the speakers will provide answers to these questions as well as tips for effective and efficient vendor qualification. Attendees will have an opportunity to ask questions following the formal presentation.

Event Level: Intermediate 

Performance Metrics Human Resources/Training
September 12, 2007
2:00 pm to 3:30 pm (ET); 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm (GMT)
Program # 074586

Director: Dennis Harpool, MT(ASCP)SBB, Vice President Procedures, Development, and Training, Blood Systems, Inc.

Faculty: Kyal Klawitter, BS, BA, CPM, Performance Metrics Administrator/Facilities Project Manager, Memorial Blood Centers; Michelle Stefan, MT(ASCP), CQA(ASQ), Senior Director of Administration, Carter Blood Center

Intended Audience: Physicians, Technologists, Nurses, Managers/Supervisors, CEOs/CFOs

Objectives:

• Describe performance metrics and why they are critical to the success of an organization.
• Learn to use metrics to optimize performance to move the organization to the next level.
• Understand the considerations in creating and selecting a performance management program.

Event Description: This audioconference will discuss what a performance management program is and why it is critical to the success of an organization. It will discuss how to select the right performance metrics and how to use performance metrics to optimize performance.

Event Level: Basic to Intermediate

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