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What This Guide Helps With
This guide assists in troubleshooting pre-use check failures on a CareFusion AVEA. Failures during pre-use checks can prevent safe patient ventilation, trigger alarms, and delay clinical care.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Ensure Patient Safety
- Confirm the ventilator is not in use on a patient.
- Move any connected patient to an alternative ventilator if necessary.
Check Power and Battery Status
- Verify the ventilator is connected to a functional power outlet.
- Ensure the battery is sufficiently charged if running on battery.
- Expected Outcome: Ventilator powers on without low battery alarms.
Inspect Breathing Circuit Connections
- Check that inspiratory and expiratory limbs are connected correctly.
- Ensure all filters, humidifiers, and adapters are installed as per protocol.
- Expected Outcome: No loose connections or misaligned components.
Examine Flow and Pressure Sensors
- Remove and reinstall flow and pressure sensors to ensure proper seating.
- Check for visible damage, debris, or condensation in sensor ports.
- Expected Outcome: Sensors are clean, aligned, and properly seated.
Verify Exhalation Valve and PEEP Valve
- Inspect the exhalation valve and PEEP valve for obstruction or misalignment.
- Clean or reposition if necessary.
- Expected Outcome: Valves move freely without sticking or blockage.
Run a Pre-Use Check Again
- Restart the ventilator and initiate the pre-use check.
- Observe for any alarms or errors during the test.
- Expected Outcome: Pre-use check completes successfully.
If the Problem Persists
External causes have likely been ruled out.
Remove the ventilator from service and label Out of Service.
Escalate to manufacturer repair or Clinical Engineering bench evaluation.
Do not attempt internal board-level repair.
Clinical Use Tip
Always troubleshoot with no patient connected.
Move the patient to another ventilator first to maintain safety.
Avoid attempting pre-use checks on active patients.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
Pre-use check fails to complete; ventilator displays error code 06.
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
Expiratory valve was misaligned, causing circuit detection errors.
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
Exhalation valve realigned, sensors reseated, and pre-use check completed successfully.
Helpful Details to Include (If Known)
- Outlet verified with a multimeter or known device.
- Flow and pressure sensors reinstalled and checked.
- Valve inspection performed; no debris detected.
- Pre-use check re-run; completed without errors.
- Final device status: Ready for patient use.
Final Thought
Troubleshooting pre-use check failures requires careful attention to patient safety and methodical verification of all external components. Following a logical sequence ensures minor issues are corrected before escalating, reduces risk, and maintains equipment readiness. Proper documentation ensures traceability and aids in future preventive maintenance.
That is successful troubleshooting.