Authors (including presenting author) :
Li SF, Lam SC, Yung WS, Man WK
Affiliation :
Physiotherapy Department, Caritas Medical Centre
Keyword 1: :
PCA Training
Keyword 3: :
Physiotherapy
Introduction :
A structured and systematic training model for PCA was introduced in the Physiotherapy Department of Caritas Medical Centre to enhance workplace safety and ensure high-quality physiotherapy services. To ensure the program effectively address the learning needs of PCAs and the departmental expectations, feedback was comprehensively collected from both groups during the planning phase. This collaborative approach enabled alignment between frontline staff competencies and departmental expectations. The curriculum emphasized hands-on learning through interactive format to strengthen clinical competence of the PCA. Also, in line with the Hospital Authority’s paperless policy, all training materials were disseminated and managed electronically through the E-system.
Objectives :
• Identify knowledge and skills in which PCAs demonstrated lower confidence or greater interest to match training needs.
• Develop and implement a new structured electronic PCA training system to standardize service quality and strengthen service efficiency.
Methodology :
Two surveys were conducted in December 2024 among all PCAs and Advanced Practice Physiotherapists, Senior Physiotherapists, and the Department Manager. These surveys explored the training needs of PCAs and departmental expectations regarding service quality. Based on the findings, designated physiotherapists delivered in-house training to address identified topics. Each topic included pre- and post-tests distributed through HA Chat using Google Forms. Participant feedback was obtained via post-training questionnaires, and results were analyzed to evaluate program effectiveness. All training materials were stored as QR-code within the PCA training system, enabling easy access for revision.
Result & Outcome :
The top training topics requested by PCAs were disease characteristics (66.7%), exercise knowledge and precautions (54.2%), and emergency drills (45.8%). Physiotherapists identified emergency skills (92.9%), PCA roles and ethics (82.1%), exercise knowledge and precautions (78.6%), and vital signs monitoring (78.6%) as priority areas.
Between February and November 2025, nine face-to-face training sessions were conducted, incorporating lectures, practical, and role-play activities. Post-test and survey response rates reached 100%. Wilcoxon Signed-Rank test results demonstrated significant improvement in post-test scores compared to pre-test scores (Z=7.55, p< 0.001). Furthermore, over 90% of PCAs agreed that the E-system was convenient and enhanced accessibility to learning materials, while nearly 90% expressed satisfaction with the training and reported successful application of the acquired knowledge in clinical practice.
