Authors: (including presenting author): :
Liu EKS(1), Chen PKM(1),Yu JWK(2), Chan TCH(1), Lau KTS(2), Hui MPS(1), Chan EPY(1), Cheung LCT (1)(2)
Affiliation: :
(1) Physiotherapy Department, Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Hospital (2) Physiotherapy Department, Tai Po Hospital
Keyword 1: :
Patient Care Assistant Online Training
Keyword 3: :
Training Videos
Keyword 4: :
AHNH & TPH Physiotherapy
Introduction: :
Over the past five years, 39 new PCAs have been recruited in AHNH and TPH's Physiotherapy Department. However, the departure of 8 and 13 staff at AHNH and TPH, respectively, has led to high turnover rates of 12.3% in AHNH and 20% in TPH annually. This situation affects team morale and requires substantial investment in training from professional staff. The current training duration of nearly three months is resource-intensive, posing challenges in retaining skilled PCAs. Key responsibilities of a PCA include: (1) assisting physiotherapists with equipment setup and maintenance,(2) teaching and supervising patients during therapeutic activities, (3) preparing and executing treatment programs, (4) observing patients to ensure safety and comfort New PCAs must complete a structured training program and pass a performance assessment. The current training in AHNH consists of 20 face-to-face modules conducted by physiotherapists and 28 training videos on equipment operation, while TPH consists of on-site job training provided by physiotherapists and 41 modules of self-learning materials. However, these training videos have not been updated to reflect advancements in technology and equipment.
Objectives: :
Standardize the PCA training program across AHNH and TPH to enhance training on new equipment, allowing PCAs to provide consistent demonstrations and instructions to patients, thereby decreasing the risk of injury for both patients and staff.
Methodology: :
A collaborative team of experienced physiotherapists from Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Hospital (AHNH) and Tai Po Hospital (TPH) will be responsible for producing instructional video clips that emphasize the proper use and setup of equipment. These videos will be meticulously crafted to provide clear, step-by-step demonstrations, ensuring that PCAs can easily understand and replicate the correct procedures. The physiotherapists will outline essential safety precautions, equipment handling techniques, and troubleshooting tips. High-quality filming and editing techniques will be employed to enhance clarity, including on-screen text annotations and visual aids to highlight key points. By utilizing these engaging video resources, the hospitals aim to not only improve the training process but also foster a culture of safety and efficiency among the PCA. A self-administered questionnaire will be completed by PCAs pre and post training program, to review their confidence and competence level.
Result & Outcome: :
The standardized procedures for equipment setup and maintenance will improve the skills of PCAs in teaching and supervising patients. This will enhance training accessibility, save physiotherapist manpower, and increase overall training efficiency. Post implementation, it is expected that no incidence occur related to improper equipment use by PCAs of AHNH & TPH, and the confidence of PCAs will be enhanced as reflected by the questionnaire.
