PAWTUCKET, RI – In response to the paucity of volunteers for critical physical exam instruction, the Council on Undergraduate Medical Education (CUME) has partnered with Hasbro™, maker of the famous Mr. Potato Head, to create anatomically accurate teaching tools.
Dr. Vas Defrenz, directer of the CUME, states: “Medical education is in flux. No longer do we have lines of people queuing up to be volunteers, paid or unpaid, to be pelvic and rectal exam models. It’s sad; I’ve had to pull my own pants down a few times, to accommodate this epidemic of need. I’m really tired… and sore.”
The inflatable plush models will be anatomically correct to allow students to accurately identify normal anatomy. Velcro™ add-ons such as polyps, cysts, and hemorrhoids will simulate pathologic findings. CEO of Hasbro, James McFinger: “We are so thrilled to be involved in molding the physicians of tomorrow. Mr. Rectum and Ms. Pelvis will undoubtedly lead to cost savings and convenience for medical schools while promoting a familiar, child-like joy of learning in its students. And they’re great gifts for small children afterwards.”
A participant in one of the pilot groups, second-year student Keith Chickory was interviewed about his experience using Ms. Pelvis. “I was a little intimidated and nervous at first but once I relaxed and became more familiar with Ms. Pelvis it actually was fun. I can’t wait to take her home and practice.” Fellow student Lindsay Slohan chimed in: “Mr. Rectum taught me so much in just a few minutes. I now feel confident with my probing skills. Human rectums, look out!”
