On this page
Asset Type
Manufacturer
Model
What This Guide Helps With
This guide assists Clinical Engineering in troubleshooting B. Braun Space Infusion Pumps that display pressure sensor faults or fail to detect an IV line. These alarms indicate the pump is unable to confirm proper line placement or is sensing abnormal pressure, which can interrupt fluid delivery. Most common causes are external and can be resolved without internal repair.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Verify Line Installation
- Ensure the IV line is fully seated in the pump channel.
- Confirm the correct tubing type is used (B. Braun-approved).
- Improper seating or wrong tubing often triggers “line not detected” errors.
Inspect Tubing for Kinks or Obstructions
- Check the entire length of the line for kinks, clots, or air bubbles.
- Even minor obstruction can cause pressure sensor alarms.
Check Pump Door / Sensor Engagement
- Open and close the pump door fully; listen for the click that indicates the door sensor engages.
- A misaligned door can prevent the pressure sensor from detecting the line.
Examine Pressure Sensor Area
- Look for debris, residue, or moisture on the sensor or tubing path.
- Clean gently with approved wipes if needed; contamination can mimic a fault.
Cycle Power / Reboot Pump
- Power off the pump, wait 10 seconds, and power on.
- Re-insert the line after reboot. This resets sensor calibration.
Try a Known Good Line
- Replace the line with a new, compatible B. Braun line.
- If the fault clears, the issue was likely tubing-related.
Inspect Docking Station / Power Connection (if applicable)
- Ensure pump is seated correctly in dock or connected to AC power.
- Some sensor errors appear when the pump is underpowered.
If the Problem Persists
External causes have been ruled out.
The pressure sensor or internal line detection mechanism may be faulty.
Action: Remove the pump from service, label as Out of Service, and send for repair or bench evaluation.
Stopping at this point prevents patient risk and avoids unnecessary internal intervention.
Clinical Use Tip
Do not troubleshoot on an active patient.
Move the patient to another pump if delivery is critical.
Always confirm the line is patent before connecting to the patient.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
“Pump displays ‘pressure sensor fault’ and does not detect IV line.”
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
“Line correctly seated, tubing unobstructed, door and sensor area clean, reboot and line swap performed; fault persisted.”
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
“Pump removed from service, labeled Out of Service, sent to Biomedical Engineering for repair.”
Helpful Details to Include
- Tubing type verified
- Sensor area cleaned
- Door clicks and engages properly
- Alarm behavior observed
- Power source verified
- Reboot attempted
- Final device status: Out of Service
Final Thought
Patient safety is the highest priority. Approach troubleshooting logically, ruling out simple external issues first. Know when to escalate to repair. Clear documentation ensures accountability and continuity.
That is successful troubleshooting.