On this page
Asset Type
Manufacturer
Model
What This Guide Helps With
This guide addresses situations where the keypad buttons on a BD Alaris infusion pump do not respond, intermittently respond, or require excessive pressure to function.
The focus is on simple, external, and easily verifiable causes first—such as power stability, module seating, physical obstruction, and lockout conditions—before assuming internal keypad or board failure.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Ensure the Patient Is Safe
- If the pump is actively infusing and the keypad is non-responsive, move the patient to another pump first.
- Do not attempt prolonged troubleshooting on an active infusion.
- Patient safety always comes first.
Check Power Source and Stability
- Confirm the pump is connected to a known-good hospital outlet.
- Verify the AC power indicator is illuminated.
- If on battery power, check battery status.
- Why this matters: Low voltage conditions or unstable power can cause the processor to partially lock up, making the keypad appear unresponsive.
- If needed, plug into AC and allow the pump to stabilize.
Perform a Controlled Power Cycle
- Turn the pump off completely.
- Wait 10–15 seconds.
- Power it back on.
- Observe: Does the keypad respond during boot-up?
- Do all buttons register normally after restart?
- If functionality returns, the issue may have been a temporary software freeze.
Check for Keypad Lockout or Software State
- Confirm the pump is not in a clinical lock mode.
- Verify the pump is not stuck in an alarm state requiring acknowledgement.
- Check if the channel module is awaiting a specific input that limits keypad interaction.
- Some states limit button functionality intentionally.
Inspect for Physical Obstruction or Damage
- Examine the keypad surface closely: Cracked overlay? Fluid intrusion? Sticky residue? Worn membrane areas?
- Lightly press each button and check for tactile feedback.
- If buttons feel flat, mushy, or inconsistent, the membrane may be failing.
Reseat Modules (If Applicable)
- If this is part of a modular Alaris system:
- Power down the unit.
- Remove and reseat the affected module.
- Inspect connection rails for debris or bent contacts.
- Poor communication between modules can mimic keypad failure.
Observe Display Behavior
- Is the screen responsive while keypad is not?
- Is the screen frozen as well?
- Are alarm tones functioning?
- If both display and keypad are unresponsive, suspect system-level freeze rather than keypad-only failure.
Check for Signs of Fluid Intrusion
- Inspect around the keypad seam.
- Check underside for corrosion or staining.
- Look for unusual odor or residue.
- Fluid damage is a common cause of keypad failure in infusion pumps.
- Do not open the unit in clinical areas.
If the Problem Persists
If the keypad remains unresponsive after:
- Verifying stable power
- Performing a power cycle
- Checking lock states
- Inspecting for physical damage
- Reseating modules
Then common external causes have been ruled out.
The issue is likely:
- Failing keypad membrane
- Internal ribbon cable issue
- Control board failure
- Fluid intrusion damage
- Remove the pump from service
- Label it Out of Service
- Send for bench evaluation or authorized repair
Knowing when to stop is proper troubleshooting.
Clinical Use Tip
Never troubleshoot a non-responsive keypad on an active infusion if therapy cannot be safely controlled.
If there is any doubt about pump reliability, transition the patient to another pump before proceeding.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
“Nursing reported keypad buttons not responding on Channel A. Unable to program infusion.”
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
“Power stable. Unit rebooted. Keypad remained non-responsive. Physical inspection revealed worn and partially lifted keypad membrane. No response to multiple button presses.”
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
“Removed pump from service. Labeled Out of Service. Sent to vendor for keypad replacement and internal inspection.”
Helpful Details to Include
- Outlet tested and verified
- Battery status at time of issue
- Reboot attempted (yes/no)
- Alarm behavior
- Display response status
- Physical condition of keypad
- Final device status
Final Thought
Effective troubleshooting begins with power and setup verification before assuming component failure. In infusion devices, patient safety and therapy continuity are always the priority. Escalating appropriately and documenting clearly protects patients, staff, and the organization.
That is successful troubleshooting.