Students in the LBWCC diagnostic medical sonography program are looking to expand their real-world knowledge this semester by using pregnant women for their clinical labs.

“We are asking for volunteers to allow our students the opportunity to obtain real-world clinical experiences in the ultrasound program,” said Program Director Olivia Bush.

Diagnostic medical sonography is a procedure that uses high-frequency sound waves to create detailed images of the human body. The program trains students to use state-of-the-art technology to scan patients and obtain images of the abdomen, pelvis, small parts, heart, blood vessels, and fetus to aid physicians and radiologists in diagnoses.

The ultrasounds will be scheduled throughout the spring semester and are free and on a first-come, first-serve basis.

The college does require that mothers-to-be meet a few requirements.

“The volunteer must have already had at least one well-baby ultrasound. They also must have their doctor’s approval on a signed LBWCC Doctor Consent Form,” Bush said. “It is important for volunteers to understand that these ultrasounds are performed by students. There is always an ARDMS-certified OB sonographer present, however.

“Our OB volunteers will have the opportunity to look at real time and possible 4D imaging of their pregnancy, but will not learn anything new about their pregnancy or the fetus during these clinical labs,” she said. “Instead, they will be contributing to the knowledge base and experience of our students, helping to prepare them for the work force through this real-world clinical exercise.”

Those interested in becoming a volunteer may pick up a consent form at LBWCC in Opp and through the LBWCC website at www.lbwcc.edu.

If interested in being a volunteer, email obush@lbwcc.edu or smusgrove@lbwcc.edu or call 334-493-5389.