Course learning objectives

• Describe the current standards and recommendations for the safe transfer of critically ill adults, as set out in the ICS 5th Edition (2026)

• Apply a structured approach to decision-making, preparation, and communication before and during critical care transfer

• Select and use appropriate monitoring, airway management strategies, and ventilator settings for the transport environment

• Recognise and manage the specific challenges of transferring patients with brain injury, respiratory failure, and obstetric emergencies

• Use equipment, checklists, and documentation in line with the 2026 minimum dataset and mandatory transfer standards

• Identify when to engage the ACCoTS dedicated transfer service and describe how to refer appropriately

• Demonstrate safe transfer practice through simulation, with effective team communication and crisis resource management

Introduction to Transfer

•     Key changes in ICS 5th Edition 2026

•     Mandatory documentation and checklist requirements

•     Referring and receiving team responsibilities

Initial Considerations for Transfer

•     Transfer risk assessment

•     Pre-transfer intubation and airway decision-making

•     Team briefing and receiving centre communication

•     Minimum preparations before departure

Ventilation for Transfer

•     Transport ventilator settings

•     Waveform capnography interpretation in transit

•     Lung-protective ventilation during transfer

•     ICS 5th Edition monitoring targets

Safe Transfer of the Brain-Injured Patient

•     Intubation criteria in brain injury

•     ICP management strategies during transfer

•     Neuromonitoring modalities in transit

•     Time-critical features requiring urgent departure

ACCoTS - Adult Critical Care Transfer Service

•     Role and remit of West Midlands ACCoTS

•     Clinical criteria for ACCoTS referral

•     Referral process and information requirements

Equipment for Transfer

•     Transfer trolley components and purpose

•     Setting up and operating a transport ventilator

•     Equipment failure modes and contingencies

•     Structured checklist completion

Clinical Skills Rotations

•     Practical transfer skills in small groups

•     Application of plenary knowledge to scenarios

•     Personal development planning

Simulation

•     Full transfer scenario management

•     Decision-making, task allocation and communication

•     Transfer safety and human factors

•     Structured debriefing and self-reflection