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What This Guide Helps With
This guide assists Clinical Engineering in troubleshooting BD Alaris infusion pumps that unexpectedly reboot, freeze, or lock up during use. Symptoms may include the pump stopping mid-infusion, the touchscreen becoming unresponsive, alarms failing to trigger, or the device cycling power on its own. Most issues of this type can be related to power inconsistencies, software glitches, or peripheral connections rather than internal board-level failures.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Verify Power Source
- Check the wall outlet with a verified device or a calibrated outlet tester.
- Ensure the pump is properly seated on its power supply or charging station.
Why: Unstable power can cause unexpected reboots.
Inspect the Battery
- Check battery level and status; replace with a known good battery if low or suspect.
- Ensure battery contacts are clean and free of corrosion.
Why: A failing battery can cause freezing or intermittent operation.
Examine External Cables and Accessories
- Remove all attached modules, IV sets, and communication cables.
- Reconnect modules one at a time and test operation.
Why: A faulty channel module or loose connection can disrupt pump operation.
Check for Environmental Factors
- Ensure the pump is operating within manufacturer-specified temperature and humidity ranges.
- Remove the pump from direct sunlight or heat sources.
Why: Extreme temperatures can cause the microprocessor to reset.
Restart and Monitor
- Power cycle the pump: turn off, wait 30 seconds, and power on.
- Observe startup self-test messages and log any warnings.
Why: Temporary software glitches can sometimes be resolved with a reboot.
Software / Guardrails Check
- Confirm the pump software version and Guardrails library are current and not corrupted.
- If a recent update was performed, verify that it completed successfully.
Why: Software or library corruption can lead to mid-operation freezes.
If the Problem Persists
Common external causes have been ruled out. The issue is likely internal (e.g., motherboard, memory module, or software corruption).
- Remove the pump from service immediately.
- Label as Out of Service.
- Send to authorized repair or bench evaluation.
Knowing when to stop prevents unsafe troubleshooting and protects patient safety.
Clinical Use Tip
Do not troubleshoot on an active patient.
Move the patient to another functioning infusion pump.
Ensure the current pump is powered off and secured before any work.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
“Pump freezes mid-infusion or reboots unexpectedly during operation.”
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
“External inspection revealed no cable issues, battery fully charged, power stable, but pump continues to reboot—likely internal software or hardware issue.”
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
“Device removed from service, labeled Out of Service, sent to vendor/biomed bench for evaluation.”
Helpful Details to Include
- Outlet tested: Yes/No
- Battery swapped: Yes/No
- Modules or accessories attached during incident
- Any unusual heat, sounds, or error codes
- Software version and Guardrails library status
- Final device status
Final Thought
Consistently using a logical, stepwise troubleshooting approach ensures patient safety and reduces unnecessary repairs. Proper documentation and timely escalation maintain operational integrity and compliance standards.
That is successful troubleshooting.