Electives for Medical Students

Electives in EMS are available to fourth-year medical students.

Develop a working knowledge of EMS systems, their components and how these components are integrated.
Be familiar with how the present EMS system in Nova Scotia (EHS) was developed and why this model was chosen.
Be familiar with the different levels of paramedics, their education and scope of practice.
Know the duties, responsibilities and authority of an EMS medical director.
Be familiar with the advantages/ limitations of air medical transport.
Be familiar with EMS controversial issues.
Become familiar with EMS disaster planning, management of CBRNE events and preparing for mass gatherings.
Be familiar with the potential expanded roles of EMS and its integration with other health programs and care providers.

Orientation to the vehicles, equipment and medications that EHS uses.
Two ground ambulance ride-alongs – at least 1 day and 1 night shift.
Conduct an interactive educational session with either paramedics or paramedic students or both.
Listen in real time to call takers and dispatchers (grounds, air and medical first response) in the EHS communications centre.
Participation in a CQI activity.
A tour of the Air Medical Base with interaction with the paramedics, nurses, pilots and administrative staff.
A half day shift in the emergency department, spending time with the triage and the department paramedics.