YOUR GUIDE TO PARTICIPATION

PARTICIPANT-CENTERED EXPERIENCE

At the Challenge Unit, your comfort and well-being are our priority. Our Participant Experience Committee is dedicated to ensuring that every volunteer feels supported throughout their time in our studies. We strive to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for all participants. 

Want to stay in the loop for future studies? Sign up for our participant database and be the first to hear about new opportunities! 

YOUR JOURNEY WITH US

  • Introduction and Consent

    You’ll start by meeting with our study staff, who will walk you through the study’s goals, process, and any possible risks. They’ll answer any questions and make sure you feel fully informed before agreeing to move forward with the study. 

  • Health Screening

    Health screening ensures you’re a good fit for the study and there are no additional risks for you if you choose to participate. This could involve a brief interview, a blood test, EKG, urinalysis, and other routine assessments.  

  • Study Invitation

    If your test results meet our criteria, we’ll reach out to confirm your eligibility. A team member will follow up with study dates and everything you need to prepare for arrival. 

  • Moving In

    You will be given a tour of the unit before check-in day, and given a day to settle in before the study procedures begin. 

  • The Challenge

    When the study starts, you’ll be inoculated with the study virus or bacteria. In some cases, there’s a vaccine appointment beforehand. 

  • Your Stay

    Depending on the study, your stay might last from a few days to a few weeks. While you stay in your room, you’re free to work remotely, dive into a hobby, or just relax. You can expect daily check-ins and scheduled procedures. 

  • Heading Home

    You’ll receive treatment to stop the infection, and you’ll be given the all-clear to go home once any symptoms are gone and you’re no longer contagious.  

  • Follow-Up Appointments

    We’ll ask you back for quick check-ins over the next few months. These are to keep an eye on your health and make sure you’re doing great after the challenge. 

LIFE IN THE CHALLENGE UNIT

Participants move into one of ten, fully contained rooms in the Challenge Unit for a portion of the study. Here’s what to expect during your stay: 

  • Your safety is our top priority. Our team of healthcare professionals is available 24/7 to support you throughout your stay. Most participants experience only mild symptoms or sometimes none at all. Our team will help you manage any that may arise. 

  • Each day includes a set of planned medical procedures like blood tests, blood pressure checks, and symptom check-ins. We’ll let you know the timing in advance, so you can plan the rest of your day freely. 

  • After daily checks, how you spend the rest of your time is up to you! You can work remotely, dive into a hobby, or just relax. Some participants have even described it as a refreshing break from day-to-day routines. 

  • Choose nutritious (and allergy friendly) meals from IWK Health’s menu, with an in-room fridge for snacks and leftovers. Plus, depending on conditions, we organize take-out nights! Laundry services and Wi-Fi are available, so you can stay comfortable and connected. 

  • We recognize that every participant has unique needs. To ensure a comfortable and supportive stay, we offer a range of accommodations within your private room, including: 

    Smudging & Cultural Practices – Participants are welcome to practice smudging and other cultural traditions within their rooms. 

    Dietary Accommodations – Meals can be customized to meet various dietary needs, including vegetarian, Halal, dairy-free, and allergy-sensitive options. 

    In-Room Space for Personal Needs – Each participant room is designed to support a variety of needs, such as: 

    • A designated area for prayer or quiet reflection 

    • Space for light exercise 

    • Accessibility features, including wheelchair-accessible layouts and safety bars for support 

    Cultural Celebrations – We recognize and accommodate religious and cultural observances, including Ramadan, Indigenous traditions, and other important events. If you have specific needs, let us know, and we’ll do our best to support you during your stay. 

Have more questions about how we protect your health? Visit our wellness page.

YOUR ROOM

Your single room is designed for comfort, privacy, and productivity, featuring: 

  • Wi-Fi access 

  • Desk and chair 

  • Mini fridge for snacks 

  • TV with IWK cable 

  • Large ensuite bathroom with full amenities 

  • Laundry services 

  • Privacy curtains

WHAT SHOULD YOU PACK?

    • Comfortable clothing and pajamas 

    • Toiletries 

    • Books, tablets, gaming consoles, or instruments 

    • Art supplies 

    • Reusable water bottles or mugs 

    • Prescribed medications 

    • Comfort items like blankets or pillows (machine-washable) 

    • Portable exercise equipment like yoga mats or small weights 

    • Snacks! 

    • Pets :( 

    • Alcohol or recreational drugs 

    • Weapons 

    • Unapproved electronic devices 

    • Fabric items that you wouldn’t want machine-washed 

IT’S BETTER TOGETHER!

Past participants have joined with a friend or family member as a unique bonding experience, or just for the (virtual) company. Let us know if you’re hoping to participate at the same time!  

If timing doesn’t work out, you can refer a friend at anytime. 

Participants are also compensated for their time.

Challenge study participants receive a financial thank-you for each day/night spent inside the Challenge Unit and each follow-up visit.