Hong Kong – Hospital Authority continues to strengthenthe on-the-job training and supervision of interns

The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority: 

     The spokesperson for the Hospital Authority (HA) stated today (October 26) that the HA has implemented various measures to enhance the on-the-job training and supervision of interns in order to improve their ability to handle different clinical situations, ensuring medical quality and patient safety.

     Following a recent incident where a nasogastric tube was incorrectly placed, the HA has fully reviewed the workflow for interns reviewing nasogastric X-ray images. In mid-October, a training course was launched to enhance interns’ ability to review nasogastric X-ray images. Most interns have completed the training, with the remaining few who have not participated, will complete the training by the end of October.

     The spokesperson said, “To ensure that interns have the correct skills to interpret nasogastric X-ray images, all interns working at the HA must undergo the training. Before completing the training and passing the assessment, interns must have their interpretation of nasogastric X-ray images confirmed by senior doctors.”

     The HA has also reminded all healthcare staff through internal communications about the key considerations when interpreting nasogastric X-ray images, including ensuring the tube is not incorrectly placed in the bronchus, observing the distal position of the tube clearly, and checking for any coils. Healthcare staff have been advised to seek assistance from seniors immediately if they have any doubts during the nasogastric tube insertion procedure.

     The HA will continue to enhance both pre-employment and on-the-job training for interns, including skills in performing different clinical procedures. Regular courses will be offered, and internal communication platforms will be used to help healthcare staff review key considerations when performing various clinical procedures. The HA will also continue to collaborate with two university medical schools to discuss training programmes for medical students, continually improving the clinical quality of healthcare staff.