Do we need to do anything before September?

[mbl]

Does anyone know if we have to get shots, get certified for cpr or anything like this before we start in September? I know Ottawa requires these things but I haven't heard of anything needed for Dal.

[doc2B]

I believe we need to do some stuff. And they are supposed to put out a "Don't Panic" guide for what we need to do ahead of time. I'm not sure when that will be. I think there are likely some immunizations that you will need ahead of time. You will definitely need CPR, I'm not sure about First Aid (but I think its just the CPR-C course that you need probably best to take the CPR-HCP or health care provider version).

 

If anyone is in Halifax and needs CPR before we start school I am a First Aid/CPR instructor for Red Cross and Lifesaving Society so if we want to get a group together we can do that sometime before September.

[MedProspect08]

Count me in on the CPR group Doc2B.

 

As for the "Don't Panic" packages, I think in previous years there was a link to this info on the respective med website (2012.medicine.dal.ca) added in mid-april...so I think we can expect something soon.

[mbl]

 

If anyone is in Halifax and needs CPR before we start school I am a First Aid/CPR instructor for Red Cross and Lifesaving Society so if we want to get a group together we can do that sometime before September.

 

Great idea!

[mlexi]

 

If anyone is in Halifax and needs CPR before we start school I am a First Aid/CPR instructor for Red Cross and Lifesaving Society so if we want to get a group together we can do that sometime before September.

 

I would also be interested in CPR! That's a great idea

[Pool Rat]

You need to get the CPR but don't stress about the immunizations. You'll need to be up to date for a bunch (details are in the Don't Panic guide) and get blood work done for titres, but it can all be done after the school year starts. Some of the stuff Dal sends out make it seem like you have to have it done for registration day, but it's actually easier if you wait until September get them done at the clinic here.

You will also need the records of your childhood immunizations. A lot of people have trouble tracking those down (especially if they moved a lot as a kid) so you may want to start hunting now. I don't know what happens if you can't get them (mine are lost to the ages and admissions hasn't been able to give me an answer on what they want me to do).

 

Other than that I don't think there's anything else you need to do. Pay your money and find a place to live. Maybe read a novel.

[Madz25]

RELAX ...that what i say lol. I think some people didnt even have their CPR and they did a course in oct/nov. Dont bother with immunizations because I tried to get them all done before med school started and theres STILL one thing missing on my record (im nearing the end of 2nd year). Immunization stuff can all be done when you're here, dont stress.

 

The only thing I'd suggest is doing the CPR course. It's quick and easy and one less thing to worry about.

 

You definitely don't need to buy anything before you start med school. Unless you want to take a trip down to good old staples and get some spiffy new binders and highlighters and what not.

 

If you have any specific questions, feel free to PM me. The 'Dont Panic Guide' will have the necessary info. I don't know when it'll be available.