July 2005 - The Hong Kong College of Anaesthesiologists

Bull HK Coll Anaesthesiol Volume 14, Number 2 July 2005General PerformanceIn general, over the last few years, similar strengths and weaknesses tended to be seen in our examinationcandidates. The written papers are generally well answered. However, the clinical medicine paper wouldrepresent one of the more difficult paper parts of the examination. Commonly seen problems includemaking simple errors in bedside physical examination, for example failure to adequately expose thepatient, or missing the presence of a physical sign. In addition, weakness in the integration of theoreticalknowledge is another commonly seen problem. Candidates must ensure that the relevant infectioncontrol practice must be adhered to; time will be allotted for this and marks may be deducted if this is ofa poor standard.Upcoming ChangesDuring the Board of Intensive Care meeting in April 2005, it was resolved that amendments in theexamination format may be made in the future. These amendments reflect the growth and maturation ofIntensive Care in Hong Kong and may provide a more objective and structured examination format. Eachchange will be introduced gradually in stages and the effects of each amendment closely monitored.As of 2005 an OSCE format will be used to replace the Investigation table. It is expected that there will be10 questions in the OSCE. Suggested aspects for the test may include ECG’s, X‐rays, investigation resultsincluding blood gases, biochemistry, microbiology and hematology, clinical waveforms, equipment,resuscitation, crises management, communication station, clinical short cases and others.The OSCE, like the investigation paper it replaces, will contribute 10% of the overall marks.A workshop comprising of a mock OSCE will be arranged and the date will be announced soon.External ExaminersThe Hong Kong College of Anaesthesiologists wishes to thank the following external examiners1997 Dr Richard Lee, Joint Faculty of Intensive Care Medicine1998 Dr Peter Morley, Joint Faculty of Intensive Care Medicine1999 Dr Loretta Yam, the Hong Kong College of Physicians2003 Dr John Myburgh, Joint Faculty of Intensive Care Medicine2004 Dr Chan Wai Ming, the Hong Kong College of PhysiciansIn gratitudeThe Hong Kong College of Anaesthesiologists would also like to thank Dr Tom Buckley for serving aschief examiner from 1997 till 2002, in particular, for organising the inaugural examinations whichrepresent a landmark for intensive care training in Hong Kong, and for providing a well organisedsystem for further growth.Dates of next examinationsThe 2005 examination dates are as follows:Written papers Monday 17 th October 2005Clinical/Practical papers Friday‐Saturday 2‐3 rd December 2005The closing date for applications is Tuesday 20 th September 2005.Dr Peggy TanChief of Examinations in Intensive Care112