The ABCs of ART (A Basic Competency Course of Assisted Reproductive Technologies) is an interactive, modular based learning program which provides an overview of clinical best practices and case study reviews. Modules 1 to 5 speak to foundational concepts that are great for nurses starting in the field of Fertility and those needing a refresher. Module 6 is aimed at more experienced nurses looking to navigate more complex topics.
A quick note about the views expressed in the program HERE
Once you have absorbed the information in the modules below, you can use our Digital Chalk platform to:
The Female and Male Reproductive Systems Examine the male and female reproductive anatomy and hormonal physiology of the reproductive system as well as the stages of embryo development. Presenter: Dr. Susan Lockhart PhD, MBA, BScN
Overview of Infertility Review the epidemiology of infertility in Canada, the causes of infertility and discuss the most common infertility disorders. Presenter: Dr. Susan Lockhart PhD, MBA, BScN
Infertility Screening - Chapter 1 Understand the general procedures for the evaluation of patients experiencing infertility, examine possible anatomical causes of female infertility, and discuss the role of genetic evaluation. Presenter: Dr. Susan Lockhart PhD, MBA, BScN
Infertility Screening - Chapter 2 Understand the general procedures for the evaluation of patients experiencing infertility, examine possible anatomical causes of female infertility, and discuss the role of genetic evaluation. Presenter: Dr. Susan Lockhart PhD, MBA, BScN
Overview of Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) - Chapter 1 Discuss the ART procedures related to patient care, outline the oocyte retrieval process, review and understand the steps performed in the IVF laboratory. Review the medical and societal implications of multiple gestations and introduce ethical and legal aspects of ART. Presenter: Dr. Susan Lockhart PhD, MBA, BScN
Overview of Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) - Chapter 2 Discuss the ART procedures related to patient care, outline the oocyte retrieval process, review and understand the steps performed in the IVF laboratory. Review the medical and societal implications of multiple gestations and introduce ethical and legal aspects of ART. Presenter: Dr. Susan Lockhart PhD, MBA, BScN
Molecules and Protocols Used in Ovarian Stimulation - Chapter 1 Identify similarities & differences between ovulation induction and controlled ovarian stimulation, review the molecules used in ART and understand the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome. Presenter: Dr. Susan Lockhart PhD, MBA, BScN
Molecules and Protocols Used in Ovarian Stimulation - Chapter 2 Identify similarities & differences between ovulation induction and controlled ovarian stimulation, review the molecules used in ART and understand the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome. Presenter: Dr. Susan Lockhart PhD, MBA, BScN
1st Trimester Pregnancy Care Exploring counseling strategies for patients in early pregnancy. Speaker: Dr. Stacy Deniz MD, FRCSC
Unexplained Infertility Discussing patient counseling strategies in explaining treatment/management options, unexplained fertility, and potential next steps. Speaker: Dr. Yasmine Usmani MD, FRCSC, OBGYN, GREI
Recurrent Pregnancy Loss How to identify, understand, and counsel patients experiencing recurrent pregnancy loss. Speaker: Dr. Yasmine Usmani MD, FRCSC, OBGYN, GREI
Conversations with LGBTQ2S+ Patients Dr. Marjorie Dixon MD, FRCSC, FACOG Understanding the LGBTQ2S+ patient journey, from implicit bias, how to break down barriers to access, and how to communicate more effectively. Speaker: Dr. Marjorie Dixon MD, FRCSC, FACOG
Fertility Preservation in Young Female Cancer Patients: Oncofertility-101 Dr. Karen Glass MD, FRCS(C), FACOG Discussing counseling strategies with oncology patients with a case study.
Fertility Preservation Alex Lagunov BSc(H), MSc Discussing counseling strategies with oncology patients with a case study from an embryologist’s perspective. Speaker: Alex Lagunov BSc(H), MSc
Genetic Testing – Types of Preimplantation Genetic Tests and Technical Aspects Overview of the spectrum of genetic testing available and applicability through case studies. Speaker: Alex Lagunov BSc(H), MSc
Preimplantation Genetic Testing: A Genetic Counsellor’s Perspective Understand the implications of results of genetic testing and how to effectively communicate with patients of the “So-what” after the fact. Speaker: Diane Myles Reid BSc(H), MSc, CGC
Optimizing Fertility Through Lifestyle Changes Exploring ways to optimize fertility by means of lifestyle changes such as diet, wellness, and supplements. Speaker: Dr. Basim Abu Rafea MD, FRCSC, FACOG
CA-NONGM-00006
Publication of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
Copyright 2025 Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany or its affiliates. All rights reserved.
EMD Serono is the Canadian healthcare business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, with innovative products and devices, and industry-leading patient support and access programs. EMD Serono has deep expertise in neurology, fertility and endocrinology, and a pipeline in neurology, oncology, immunology and immuno-oncology. EMD Serono is headquartered in Mississauga, Ontario.
© 2025 Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany or its affiliates
