“Lie down on your back, your elbow is about to get a lot of gel on it,” said the proctor during our most recent AIUM headquarter course. As staff, we often have to step in and assist at meetings in ways we had not planned. This moment was not any different, but we do it because we want to understand and enhance the attendee experience. Turns out I have a “beautiful” elbow and yes, some of you beginners are pressing too hard.

Sonographer Haylea Weiss scanning Jamie Parreco’s ankle.

As I had my second joint scanned, I thought, what a cool experience; my body is going to help advance the safe and effective use of ultrasound. I found myself offering to volunteer any chance I could, having my elbow, ankle/foot, and shoulder scanned in the end. I listened, watched, and learned as attendees explored.

So why am I telling you this? As a program/meeting planner, it was valuable for me to see things from a model’s perspective:

• You really should wear comfortable clothes.
• Gel really will get all over you.
• Talking to the attendee can help them learn.

Here at the AIUM, we offer great opportunities for models to get involved at our annual meeting and courses, but for those of you who have not gotten on one of those exam beds as a model in a while, I encourage you to do so. Everyone learns on that bed; ultrasound grows on that bed; your future sonographers and physicians need you on that bed.

We have a unique opportunity to provide true hands-on experience in our field and I encourage you to support that in any way you can. Who knows, you may learn a thing or two about your body as well. #snappinganklevictim

Have you ever been a model for a hands-on ultrasound course? Share your experience below, or, AIUM members, continue the conversation on Connect, the AIUM’s online community.

Jamie Parreco is Director of the Events and Continuing Education Services department at the AIUM in Laurel, Maryland.