Cell Salvage Training FAQ
Find answers to common questions about our accredited cell salvage training courses
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Course Basics
Cell Salvage Service
Our Cell Salvage Training Course is the UK’s only accredited training program specifically designed for healthcare professionals who operate or wish to operate cell salvage equipment. The course provides comprehensive theoretical knowledge and practical hands-on experience with various cell salvage machines used in surgical settings.
Who should attend this course?
The course is designed for healthcare professionals including:
- Operating Department Practitioners (ODPs)
- Theatre Nurses and Scrub Practitioners
- Perfusionists
- Anaesthetic Practitioners
- Blood Transfusion Specialists
- Healthcare Scientists
- Anyone involved in perioperative blood management
What is the difference between the 2-day and 3-day courses?
2-Day Intensive Course (£1,250)
- Theoretical foundations
- Practical hands-on training
- Basic competency assessment
- Course materials included
- Ideal for those getting started
3-Day Comprehensive Course (£1,750)
- Extended theoretical training
- Advanced practical sessions
- Multi-machine competency
- Comprehensive assessment
- Clinical placement opportunity
- All materials & certification
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Do I need any prior experience to attend?
No prior cell salvage experience is required. The course is designed to take participants from beginner to competent level. However, you should be a registered healthcare professional with experience working in an operating theatre environment. Basic understanding of blood physiology and surgical procedures is helpful but not essential.
Booking & Payment
How do I book a place on the course?
- Select your preferred course type (2-day or 3-day)
- Choose from available dates
- Enter attendee details
- Complete payment or request an invoice
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept the following payment methods:
- Credit/Debit Card – Visa, Mastercard, American Express
- Bank Transfer (BACS) – Payment required within 14 days
- NHS Purchase Order – For NHS Trust employees
- Invoice – 30-day payment terms for organisations
Can my employer pay for the course?
Yes, many attendees are funded by their employers. We can provide invoices for NHS Trusts, private hospitals, and other healthcare organisations. For NHS employees, we accept NHS Purchase Orders. We can also provide a formal quotation or proforma invoice to support your training budget request.
What is your cancellation policy?
Our cancellation policy is as follows:
- More than 28 days before: Full refund minus £50 admin fee, or free transfer to another date
- 14-28 days before: 50% refund or free transfer to another date
- Less than 14 days: No refund, but transfer to future date may be possible (subject to availability)
- No-show: No refund or transfer
Substitute attendees can be accommodated at any time at no extra charge.
Do you offer group discounts?
Yes, we offer discounts for group bookings. For 3 or more attendees from the same organisation, please contact us for a bespoke quote. We also offer in-house training packages which can be more cost-effective for larger groups – the training comes to you at your hospital.
Course Content
What topics are covered in the course?
The course covers comprehensive cell salvage training including:
- Principles of cell salvage and autotransfusion
- Blood physiology and haemostasis
- Indications and contraindications
- Equipment operation and troubleshooting
- Quality assurance and safety protocols
- Patient Blood Management principles
- Documentation and governance
- Obstetric cell salvage considerations
- Emergency scenarios and response
- Clinical case studies and best practice
Which cell salvage machines will I learn to use?
Our course provides hands-on experience with the major cell salvage systems used in UK hospitals:
- LivaNova Xtra – One of the most widely used systems
- Medtronic Autolog – Popular in cardiac surgery
- Terumo BCT – Advanced centrifugal technology
- Haemonetics Cell Saver – Industry standard equipment
This multi-machine competency ensures you can work effectively regardless of which equipment your hospital uses.
Is obstetric cell salvage covered?
Yes, obstetric cell salvage is an important component of our training. We cover the specific considerations for using cell salvage in caesarean sections and major obstetric haemorrhage, including the use of leukocyte depletion filters, the evidence base for safety, and the protocols recommended by NICE guidelines.
What materials are provided?
All participants receive:
- Comprehensive course manual (printed and digital)
- Quick reference guides for each machine type
- Machine setup checklists
- Troubleshooting flowcharts
- Example policies and protocols
- Access to online resources and updates
- Certificate of completion
Certification & CPD
Is the course accredited?
Yes, our course is the UK’s only accredited cell salvage training program. The course is CPD accredited and recognised by NHS Blood and Transplant, the College of Operating Department Practitioners, and various Royal Colleges. Completion provides evidence for your professional portfolio and revalidation requirements.
How many CPD points will I receive?
The 2-day course carries 14 CPD points, while the 3-day comprehensive course carries 21 CPD points. These points are suitable for inclusion in your professional portfolio for the NMC, HCPC, or other regulatory bodies.
What certificate will I recieve?
Upon successful completion, you will receive a Certificate of Competency in Cell Salvage. This certificate details the machines you’ve been trained on, the CPD points awarded, and is signed by our Lead Trainer. Digital copies are also provided for your records and can be verified by employers.
How long is the certification valid?
While the certificate doesn’t expire, we recommend refresher training every 2-3 years to stay updated with best practices and new equipment. Many NHS Trusts require annual competency assessments which should be provided by your employer. We offer refresher courses for previous attendees at reduced rates.
Practical Training
How much hands-on practice will I get?
Approximately 50% of the course is practical, hands-on training. With small group sizes (maximum 8 per course), you’ll have ample opportunity to set up, operate, and troubleshoot each machine type multiple times. The 3-day course provides additional practical time and includes a clinical observation day.
What is the clinical placement day?
The 3-day course includes an optional clinical placement where you can observe cell salvage being used in real surgical cases. This takes place at one of our partner hospitals and allows you to see the theory put into practice. Subject to theatre list availability and appropriate honorary contracts/DBS clearance.
Will I be competent to operate independently after the course?
The course provides comprehensive training that equips you with the knowledge and skills to operate cell salvage equipment. However, most NHS Trusts require a period of supervised practice in your own workplace before operating independently. Your local governance arrangements will determine when you can practice unsupervised. We provide a log book to document your supervised cases.
Course Logistics
Where are the courses held?
Our regular courses are held in Manchester, with excellent transport links by road and rail. The venue has free parking and is a short walk from Manchester Piccadilly station. We also run courses at venues across the UK throughout the year and offer in-house training at your hospital.
What are the course times?
Courses typically run from 09:00 to 17:00 each day. Registration and refreshments are available from 08:30 on the first day. Lunch and refreshments throughout the day are included in the course fee.
Is lunch provided?
Yes, a freshly prepared lunch is provided each day along with morning and afternoon refreshments. Please let us know of any dietary requirements when booking, and we’ll be happy to accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, halal, or other dietary needs.
Can you recommend accommodation?
Yes, we can provide recommendations for hotels near the venue at various price points. Some hotels offer NHS rates. Accommodation is not included in the course fee, but we’re happy to assist with your travel planning. Details are provided in your booking confirmation email.
Do you offer in-house training at our hospital?
Yes, we offer bespoke in-house training packages delivered at your hospital. This can be cost-effective for organisations training multiple staff and allows the training to be tailored to your specific equipment and protocols. Contact us for a customised quote based on your requirements.
What should I bring to the couse?
Please bring:
- Photo ID (for registration)
- Notepad and pen (though materials are provided)
- Any pre-course reading materials (sent before the course)
- Comfortable clothing suitable for practical sessions
- Your booking confirmation email
Ready to Start Your Training?
Contact us today to discuss pricing, dates, and secure your place