On this page
Asset Type
Manufacturer
Model
What This Guide Helps With
This guide assists Clinical Engineering in troubleshooting B. Braun Space Infusion Pumps when the keypad buttons fail to respond to user input. Symptoms may include buttons not registering or intermittent response when adjusting settings.
Many of these issues are caused by simple external factors such as contamination, moisture, temporary software lockups, or power-related problems rather than internal hardware failure.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Confirm the Pump Is Powered and Fully Booted
- Verify the pump is powered on and has completed its startup process.
- A pump that is still booting or stuck in a startup state may not respond to keypad input.
Check for Active Alarms or Lock Screens
- Some alarm states or lock modes can temporarily restrict input.
- Clear any alarms and confirm the device is not in a locked or restricted mode.
Inspect the Keypad for Contamination
- Look for dried IV fluids, adhesive residue, cleaning chemical buildup.
- Sticky residue can prevent buttons from actuating properly.
Test Individual Buttons
- Press multiple keys individually.
- Note whether none, some, or all inputs fail to register.
Clean the Keypad Surface
- If contamination is present, wipe the keypad with an approved disinfectant wipe.
- Ensure no fluid enters around the seams.
- Allow the surface to fully dry. Sticky residue is a common cause of input failure.
Power Cycle the Pump
- Turn the pump off.
- Remove it from the docking station if docked.
- Wait approximately 10–15 seconds.
- Power the unit back on. This clears temporary software or interface lockups.
Test Operation Off the Dock
- If the pump was docked, remove it from the docking station.
- Operate the keypad on battery power.
- Rarely, docking communication issues can interfere with interface responsiveness.
Check for Physical Damage
- Inspect for cracked keypad membrane, signs of impact or drop damage, or liquid intrusion near the interface.
- Mechanical damage often leads to unresponsive inputs.
Test Menu Navigation
- Attempt to navigate through menus using the buttons.
- Confirm whether the device registers scrolling and selection.
If the Problem Persists
If the keypad remains unresponsive after these external checks, common external causes have been ruled out. The issue is likely due to an internal failure such as keypad membrane failure, rotary encoder failure, or a user interface board fault.
At this point the device should be:
- Removed from service
- Labeled Out of Service
- Sent for repair or bench evaluation
Recognizing when internal repair is required is an important part of proper troubleshooting.
Clinical Use Tip
Never troubleshoot an infusion pump that is actively connected to a patient.
If keypad or control issues occur during therapy, transfer the infusion to another pump, ensure the patient’s therapy continues safely, and remove the malfunctioning pump for evaluation. Patient therapy should never depend on a device with unreliable controls.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
Nursing staff reported the infusion pump keypad was not responding when attempting to adjust infusion settings.
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
Testing confirmed keypad inputs were intermittent. External contamination ruled out; likely internal keypad/encoder failure.
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
Pump removed from service and labeled Out of Service. Device sent for repair and replacement pump issued to the unit.
Helpful Details to Include
- Power source tested (AC or battery)
- Whether pump was docked at time of issue
- Button response behavior
- Presence of contamination or residue
- Physical condition of keypad membrane
- Final device status (returned to service or sent for repair)
Final Thought
Interface failures on infusion pumps can significantly impact safe medication delivery. Clinical Engineering should always begin with external causes such as contamination, software lockups, or power issues before assuming hardware failure. When input controls remain unreliable after these checks, removing the device from service protects both patients and clinical staff. Clear documentation ensures the issue is properly tracked and resolved.
That is successful troubleshooting.