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Asset Type
Manufacturer
Model
What This Guide Helps With
Addresses lack of CPR feedback prompts, missing compression guidance, or feedback device not responding during rescue readiness checks.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Ensure Patient Safety
- Confirm the AED is not in active clinical use. If needed, replace with a known working unit before troubleshooting.
Verify CPR Feedback Feature Availability
- Confirm this unit is equipped with CPR feedback capability (e.g., IntelliSense CPR Device). Some configurations do not include this feature.
Check CPR Feedback Pad/Device Connection
- Inspect the CPR feedback puck/sensor connection to the electrode pads.
- Ensure it is firmly seated with no loose or disconnected components.
- A loose connection will prevent feedback from functioning.
Inspect Electrode Pads for Integrated Feedback Components
- Verify that the installed pads are the correct type with CPR feedback capability.
- Standard pads without feedback will not provide compression guidance.
Check Pad Expiration Date
- Expired pads may disable or affect feedback features.
- Replace pads if expired or near expiration and retest.
Inspect Cable and Connector Condition
- Check for bent pins, damaged connectors, or frayed cables between pads and AED.
- Damage can interrupt communication with the feedback system.
Power Cycle the Device
- Remove the battery, wait 10 seconds, then reinstall.
- Observe for normal self-test behavior and listen for voice prompts related to CPR feedback.
Observe Self-Test Indicators
- Check the Rescue Ready indicator and listen for any fault tones.
- A failed self-test may disable advanced features like CPR feedback.
Perform a Functional Test (No Patient Connected)
- Install known-good CPR feedback pads and simulate a rescue scenario per facility protocol.
- Confirm whether CPR prompts and feedback activate.
- If feedback works → Issue resolved (likely pads or connection issue)
- If no feedback → Continue troubleshooting
Try Known Good Accessories
- Swap with a verified working set of CPR feedback pads/device.
- If resolved → Original accessory is faulty
- If not resolved → Continue
If the Problem Persists
After verifying pads, connections, and accessories, the issue is likely internal to the AED’s feedback circuitry.
Remove the device from service, label it Out of Service, and send for repair or bench evaluation. Recognizing when external causes are ruled out is proper troubleshooting.
Clinical Use Tip
Do not troubleshoot CPR feedback features on an active patient. Always move the patient to a fully functional AED before testing or evaluation.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
"CPR feedback not providing prompts during AED use."
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
"Failed CPR feedback function not resolved after replacing pads and verifying connections."
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
"Removed AED from service and sent to vendor for evaluation and repair."
Helpful Details to Include (If Known)
- CPR feedback device present or not
- Pad type verified (feedback vs standard)
- Pads expiration checked
- Accessories swapped with known good
- Rescue Ready indicator status
- Audible prompts present or absent
- Physical condition of connectors and cables
- Final device status (in service / out of service)
Final Thought
CPR feedback relies heavily on correct accessories and clean connections. Always rule out pads and external components first before suspecting internal failure. Prioritize patient safety and document findings clearly to support repair decisions and reduce downtime.
That is successful troubleshooting.