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Manufacturer
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What This Guide Helps With
Identifies external causes of inaccurate spirometry results such as calibration issues, leaks, contamination, incorrect setup, or environmental factors.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Ensure Patient Safety First
- Confirm the device is not actively in use on a patient.
- Move testing to another spirometer if needed.
Verify Calibration Status
- Check when the last calibration was performed.
- Perform a new calibration using a known good calibration syringe.
Confirm Proper Calibration Technique
- Ensure calibration strokes are smooth and consistent (no hesitation or variable speed).
- Verify correct syringe volume is selected in the system.
Inspect Flow Sensor for Contamination or Moisture
- Check for condensation inside the sensor.
- Check for debris, mucus, or residue.
- Check for visible wear or damage.
- Replace or clean per facility protocol if contamination is present.
Check Patient Interface and Tubing
- Inspect mouthpiece, tubing, and connections for loose fittings.
- Check for cracks or leaks.
- Verify proper assembly.
- Replace disposable components if needed.
Verify Correct Patient Setup and Entry
- Confirm patient demographics entered correctly (age, height, gender).
- Verify proper test selection and settings.
Observe Patient Technique (If Applicable)
- Confirm proper seal around mouthpiece.
- Ensure no air leakage from nose (use of nose clip if required).
- Verify correct effort and coaching.
Check Environmental Conditions
- Verify room temperature and humidity within acceptable range.
- Ensure no recent rapid temperature changes.
Restart System and Software
- Perform a controlled restart of the device or connected PC.
If the Problem Persists
If all external causes have been ruled out, the issue is likely internal (sensor drift, internal electronics, or processing error).
- Remove the device from service.
- Label as Out of Service.
- Send for repair or bench evaluation.
Clinical Use Tip
Do not troubleshoot accuracy issues on an active patient. Always validate performance with a calibration syringe before returning the device to clinical use.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
"Staff reported spirometry results appeared inconsistent and lower than expected values."
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
"Flow sensor contamination and minor air leak at tubing connection identified during inspection."
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
"Replaced tubing, cleaned sensor per protocol, performed successful calibration verification, and returned unit to service."
Helpful Details to Include (If Known)
- Calibration passed/failed
- Sensor condition (clean/contaminated)
- Tubing and mouthpiece replaced
- Environmental conditions checked
- Patient technique concerns noted
- Device status after calibration verification
Final Thought
Accurate spirometry depends heavily on proper setup, calibration, and patient interaction. Clinical Engineering troubleshooting should always start with simple, external causes before considering internal failure. Protect patient safety, validate performance, and document clearly to support clinical confidence in results.
That is successful troubleshooting.