Training in Anaesthesia Highlands of Scotland

Code of conduct

Teaching with models for Regional Anaesthesia courses

This is taken from the RAUK code published in 2024

This code of conduct is designed for faculty who are teaching on live models and delegates for regional anaesthesia courses. The purpose of it is to encourage learning but also ensure it is a respectful environment for all involved. 

Faculty are in a position of leadership during workshops/small group teaching and this can inadvertently make someone feel uncomfortable or feel coerced which they may not even realise. Models have kindly volunteered to be scanned and they should feel they are valued members of the course. They will be exposing areas they would not normally expose in everyday life and appreciation of this should at the forefront of those leading sessions. They will be briefed regarding which anatomy they will need to expose prior to the course but the utmost respect and consent should be established at all times before any scanning. We expect most would do this naturally, however to ensure it is standardised please see the below outlines expected of all those scanning live models.

Respect

  • Use the model’s name
  • Introduce yourself
  • Ask permission 
  • Be polite
  • Establish plan for the session prior to commencement. Avoid last minute changes as models may feel pressured to comply
  • Encourage learning through asking questions from trainees and volunteers where appropriate

Dignity

  • Expose no more than is needed
  • Offer paper towel to remove gel and privacy for getting clean where possible
  • Allow adequate time in between scanning stations for comfort breaks, changing and preparation of the workshop

Comfort

  • Provide adequate blankets for warmth
  • Try to avoid abdominal scanning when models have a full stomach
  • Avoid prolonged periods in uncomfortable positions (for example axillary brachial plexus with arm raised). Utilising freeze screen to allow the model to have a break, or allowing them to adopt a comfortable position of their choice can help with this. Empower the model to tell you if they are uncomfortable and need a break.
  • Patient experience and rapport are important non-technical skills to block success. Live model scanning is an excellent opportunity to teach these skills.

Facilities

  • Provision of a private area for changing and cleaning
  • Ensure the room is adequately warm for the models

 Privacy

  • No photography or filming (without consent)
  • Do not publish on social media (without consent)

Boundaries

  • Avoid comments which might make the model feel uncomfortable. When commenting on anatomical differences ensure it is done in respectful manner conducive to learning 
  • Establish the boundaries of scanning with the model prior to station. 
  • Do not offer unsolicited professional advice
  • Do not make improper personal advances

 Thank you again for adhering to these standards to ensure a positive learning environment for all.