Risk and Disaster Management for the IVF Laboratory

Abstract

Since 1978 with the first documented live birth via in vitro fertilization, the assisted reproductive technology field has grown to become a commonplace practice. Clinics and laboratories dedicated to the cultivation and cryopreservation of embryos, oocytes, and spermatozoa are now found in most parts of the world, not just developed countries. With this widespread presence of assisted reproduction comes the responsibility to protect fresh and cryopreserved human tissue and maintain continuity of patient care in the event of a natural disaster or other destructive events upending the normalcy of clinics and hospitals. Critical for handling these types of disruptions is an emergency plan to first and foremost (1) protect laboratory personnel and patients, (2) preserve cryopreserved gametes and embryos, and (3) safeguard patient information, financial and operational documents, and laboratory equipment.