Objective To provide evidence for the construction of a hospital emergency mechanism for internal supervision, based on and analysis of demands and the identification of effective measures. Methods The concepts of evidence-based health care and management methods were applied. Through the systematic collection of relevant information from CNKI and other sources, and in the light of empirical evidence following the Wenchuan earthquake, suggestions were presented. Results We identified 182 studies. The hospital emergency mechanism for internal supervision is very important in dealing with unexpected incidents. The implementation, funding and material support are the focus of supervision. Cooperation, discipline, and standardized procedures are the key to an effective mechanism. Conclusions It is suggested that the construction of a hospital emergency mechanism for internal supervision should involve prevention, response and recovery.