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Asset Type
Sequential Compression Device (SCD)
Manufacturer
Model
What This Guide Helps With
Troubleshooting SCD Express power cord, AC power, battery charging, low battery, or no-power issues before repair escalation.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Ensure Patient Safety First
Confirm the Kendall SCD Express is not actively being used for patient compression therapy before removing power, swapping cords, or taking the unit out of service.
If therapy is needed, move the patient to another working SCD pump.
Expected outcome: Patient compression therapy is not interrupted without a safe replacement.
Confirm the Exact Power Complaint
Ask clinical staff what was observed. Determine whether the issue is:
- Unit will not power on
- Battery will not charge
- Battery discharges quickly
- Unit only works on AC power
- Unit only works on battery
- Power cord is loose or damaged
- Charging indicator does not appear
- Low battery alarm occurs shortly after charging
Expected outcome: The complaint is narrowed to AC power input, cord, battery runtime, charging behavior, or internal power circuitry.
Inspect the Power Cord Externally
Check the power cord for cuts, crushed insulation, exposed conductors, bent prongs, missing ground pin, loose connector fit, or signs of heat damage.
Do not use a damaged cord.
Expected outcome: A visibly damaged or unsafe cord is identified before further use.
If replacing the cord resolves the issue, return the device to service after safety and functional checks are completed.
Verify the Wall Outlet
Plug a known-working device or outlet tester into the same outlet. Confirm the outlet has power and is not controlled by a wall switch, emergency circuit issue, or loose receptacle.
Expected outcome: Facility power is confirmed before suspecting the SCD unit.
If the outlet is the issue, notify Facilities and test the SCD on a known-good outlet.
Check the Cord Connection at the Pump
Make sure the power cord is fully seated at the Kendall SCD Express power inlet. Gently check for looseness without forcing the connector.
Expected outcome: A partially seated or loose power cord is corrected.
If reseating the cord restores power or charging, monitor briefly and document the finding.
Confirm AC Power Indicator Behavior
Plug the unit into a known-good outlet using a known-good cord. Observe whether the unit shows AC power or charging indication.
Expected outcome: The pump recognizes external power and begins charging if the battery is low.
If there is no AC power indication with a verified outlet and cord, remove the device from service.
Allow Time for Battery Charging
If the battery is fully depleted, leave the unit connected to AC power for a reasonable charging period per facility practice before judging battery performance.
Expected outcome: The battery begins charging and the low battery condition clears.
If the device powers on only after being connected to AC power, continue checking battery runtime.
Check Battery Runtime Behavior
After charging, disconnect AC power and confirm whether the unit remains powered on. Observe whether it immediately shuts off, alarms, or rapidly returns to low battery.
Expected outcome: The battery supports normal short-term operation away from AC power.
If the device cannot maintain battery operation after charging, the battery or charging circuit may require replacement or service.
Inspect for External Damage or Fluid Exposure
Check the pump housing, power inlet area, and cord connection point for cracks, corrosion, sticky residue, fluid intrusion, burnt smell, unusual heat, or discoloration.
Expected outcome: External damage or contamination is identified before continued use.
If there is heat, smell, fluid exposure, or visible electrical damage, stop troubleshooting and remove the unit from service.
Check for Accessory or Use-Related Misinterpretation
Confirm the complaint is truly power-related and not caused by cuff connection alarms, tubing issues, or staff expecting the unit to operate unplugged longer than the battery supports.
Expected outcome: Non-power alarms are separated from actual charging or battery failure.
Perform a Basic Functional Check
With the unit on AC power, connect appropriate SCD sleeves or test setup per facility process. Confirm the pump powers on, starts compression, and does not generate immediate power or battery alarms.
Expected outcome: The device operates normally on AC power with no power-related alarms.
If the power issue is resolved and the device passes functional and safety checks, return it to service.
If the Problem Persists
If the Kendall SCD Express still will not power on, will not recognize AC power, will not charge, rapidly loses battery power, overheats, or shows signs of electrical damage after outlet and cord checks, common external causes have been ruled out.
The device should be:
- Removed from service
- Labeled Out of Service
- Sent for repair or bench evaluation
Do not continue repeated power cycling or return the unit to patient use with an unresolved charging or battery concern. Knowing when to stop is proper troubleshooting.
Clinical Use Tip
Do not troubleshoot a power or battery issue while the SCD is actively providing therapy to a patient. Move the patient to another working SCD pump first, then evaluate the failed unit away from patient care.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
"Clinical staff reported the Kendall SCD Express would not stay powered on when unplugged and displayed a low battery condition."
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
"Verified wall outlet and power cord were good, but the unit failed to maintain battery operation after charging."
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
"Removed the SCD from service, labeled it Out of Service, and sent it for bench evaluation for suspected battery or charging circuit failure."
Helpful Details to Include (If Known)
- Outlet tested and confirmed good
- Known-good power cord tried
- Power cord condition inspected
- AC power or charging indicator behavior
- Battery charge time allowed
- Battery runtime after charging
- Any low battery alarm behavior
- Any unusual heat, smell, discoloration, or fluid exposure
- Whether the unit works on AC power only
- Final device status: returned to service or removed for repair
Final Thought
Power and charging issues on an SCD should be handled carefully because the device may appear usable while still having unreliable battery operation. Start with the outlet, cord, and connection before suspecting internal failure. If the unit cannot safely maintain power or charge properly, remove it from service and document the findings clearly using the CCR method.
That is successful troubleshooting.