Purpose

This document outlines the procedure to ensure students in the School of Rehabilitation Science (SRS) understand and comply with immunization and serology requirements necessary for participation in clinical placements.  By requiring students to meet and maintain immunization standards throughout the program, the aim is to protect the health and safety of clients, students, and staff, while ensuring compliance with the Clinical Placement Agreement between the University of Saskatchewan (USask) and the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA).  This agreement aligns with recommended public health guidelines.

Background

The University of Saskatchewan Health Sciences programs, including SRS, follow standardized immunization and serology requirements based on best practice guidelines and clinical placement agreements. Compliance is mandatory for participation in clinical education. 

Student Responsibilities

Students must: 

Provide Documentation 

  • Sign the Immunization Requirements Consent to Comply form upon admission to confirm their agreement to comply with all requirements and to authorize the sharing of their immunization information with the SRS  
  • Submit official, signed evidence of immunization status by the date specified in the admissions package 
  • Immunization records must be verified through the USask Student Wellness Centre. If completed elsewhere, records must still be submitted to the Wellness Centre for review and verification
Initiate Completion of the Immunization Requirements when Admitted to the Program 
  • Completion of the immunization requirements by the date specified in the admissions package is required and must be started at the time of admission.
Maintain Immunization Status 
  • Keep immunizations current throughout the program. 
  • Cover any associated costs (most immunizations are covered under a valid provincial health card). 
Discuss Exceptions 
  • If unable to comply for medical or other valid reasons, students must contact the program when admitted to the program 
Understand Consequences 
  • Failure to meet immunization requirements may result in:
    • Exclusion from certain clinical sites 
    • Removal from placements during outbreaks 
    • Inability to complete program requirements 

Required Immunizations

  • Tetanus/Diphtheria (Td): Primary series (3–5 doses), booster every 10 years 
  • Pertussis: Primary series; one adult booster with pertussis component 
  • Polio: Primary series; booster if traveling to endemic areas 
  • Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR): Two documented doses OR serological proof of immunity 
  • Tuberculin Skin Test (TST): One-step TST prior to client contact; CXR if history of positive TST 
  • Hepatitis B: Full series (2–3 doses) and antibody check; series must be started before program entry and completed by March 15 of the year following admission 
  • Varicella (Chickenpox): Two documented doses OR serological proof of immunity 
  • Influenza and COVID-19: Annual vaccination strongly recommended per public health guidelines 

Process

  • Students may begin immunization review with their family physician or local health center but must complete verification through the USask Student Wellness Centre 
  • The Wellness Centre will upload verified records to the student file and provide an electronic signed copy for submission to SRS 

Additional Notes

  • Clinical facilities may request proof of immunization before placement; students should keep their signed verification on hand
  • New immunization requirements may arise while in the program; students are responsible for compliance and associated costs