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What This Guide Helps With
This guide assists Clinical Engineering in troubleshooting situations where the Novum IQ infusion pump does not power on, intermittently loses power, fails to charge, or displays battery-related alarms. The focus is on verifying external power sources, connections, and battery condition before assuming internal power module failure.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Ensure Patient Safety First
- Do not troubleshoot on a device connected to a patient.
- Transition the patient to a properly functioning infusion pump before removing this device from service.
Verify AC Power Source
- Confirm the outlet is functional using a known working device.
- Check for switched outlets or power strips that may be turned off.
- Why: Many “no power” issues are caused by unavailable or interrupted AC power.
Inspect the Power Cord and Adapter
- Ensure the correct Baxter-approved power cord is being used.
- Check for visible damage (cuts, bent prongs, loose connections).
- Reseat both ends of the cord firmly.
- Why: Damaged or loose cords can prevent charging or powering.
Check Power Indicator Lights
- Observe if any LEDs illuminate when plugged into AC power.
- Look for charging indicators or fault lights.
- Why: Indicator behavior helps differentiate between battery vs. internal power failure.
Attempt Power-On with AC Connected
- Plug the pump into AC power and attempt to power on.
- If the unit powers on only when plugged in, suspect battery degradation.
- Why: This isolates battery function from the main power supply.
Check Battery Status on Screen (if accessible)
- Navigate to system/battery status if the device powers on.
- Look for:
- Low capacity warnings
- Charging status
- Battery not detected messages
- Why: Provides direct feedback on battery health and recognition.
Inspect Battery Compartment (External Only)
- If accessible without tools, verify battery is properly seated.
- Look for corrosion, swelling, or damage.
- Do not open the device or access internal components.
- Why: Poor battery contact can prevent proper operation.
Swap with Known Good Power Cord or Battery (if available)
- Replace the power cord with a known working one.
- If batteries are user-replaceable, try a known good battery.
- Why: Helps isolate whether the issue is accessory-related vs. device-related.
Check for Intermittent Power Loss
- Gently move the power cord at the connection point.
- Observe for power drops or flickering.
- Why: May indicate a worn power port or loose connection.
Listen and Observe During Charging
- Check for unusual heat, noise, or burning smell.
- Why: These may indicate internal power supply issues and require immediate removal from service.
If the Problem Persists
If all external power sources, cords, and battery checks have been verified and the issue remains, the problem is likely internal (battery failure, charging circuit issue, or power module failure).
- Remove the device from service
- Label the device Out of Service
- Send for repair or further bench evaluation
Recognizing when the issue is beyond external troubleshooting is critical to safe and effective Clinical Engineering practice.
Clinical Use Tip
Do not troubleshoot power issues on a device connected to a patient. Transition the patient to a properly functioning infusion pump before removing this device from service.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
“Pump would not power on and displayed battery failure alarm during use.”
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
“Battery not holding charge and device only powered on when connected to AC. Verified with known good outlet and power cord.”
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
“Removed pump from service and sent for battery replacement and internal power module evaluation.”
Helpful Details to Include
- Outlet tested and verified
- Power cord condition and swap performed
- Battery status message (if available)
- Indicator light behavior
- Device powers on with AC only vs. battery
- Any intermittent power loss observed
- Presence of heat, odor, or noise
- Final device status (removed from service)
Final Thought
Power-related issues should always be approached from the outside in—starting with the simplest, most accessible causes. Ensuring reliable power is critical for patient safety, especially with infusion therapy. Knowing when to escalate protects both the patient and the equipment, while clear documentation supports ongoing reliability and accountability.
That is successful troubleshooting.