On this page
Asset Type
Manufacturer
Model
What This Guide Helps With
This guide addresses situations where the Apollo anesthesia machine:
- Fails its automatic power-on self-test
- Displays system check errors during startup
- Will not transition to “ready for use” status
The focus is on logical, external troubleshooting steps first before assuming internal failure.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
1. Ensure Patient Safety First
- Confirm the machine is not connected to an active patient.
- If failure occurs during room setup, ensure no induction has begun.
- If a patient is already present, move them to another verified anesthesia machine immediately.
Self-test failures indicate safety-critical issues. Do not attempt to bypass startup checks.
2. Confirm AC Power Source
- Verify the machine is plugged directly into a known-good hospital-grade outlet.
- Check that the outlet is live (use outlet tester if available).
- Ensure the power cord is fully seated at both the wall and the rear of the machine.
Why this matters:
Low or unstable input power can cause incomplete self-tests or false failure messages.
3. Verify Gas Supply Pressures
- Confirm O₂, Air, and N₂O pipeline hoses are securely connected.
- Check wall source pressure gauges for proper operating range.
- Inspect backup cylinders (if installed) for adequate pressure and open valves.
Why this matters:
The Apollo performs gas system integrity checks during startup. Low or absent supply pressure will cause test failure.
4. Check Vaporizers
- Ensure vaporizers are properly seated and locked.
- Confirm no vaporizer is between detents (partially engaged).
- Turn all vaporizers OFF before initiating self-test.
Why this matters:
Improperly seated vaporizers can trigger leak or configuration errors.
5. Inspect Breathing Circuit Assembly
- Confirm circuit is assembled correctly.
- Check that:
- Inspiratory and expiratory limbs are connected.
- APL valve is not fully closed.
- CO₂ absorber canister is properly seated and locked.
- Inspect for visible cracks or missing seals.
Why this matters:
Leak tests are part of the automatic self-test. An improperly assembled circuit will cause failure.
6. Check Water Trap and Flow Sensors
- Inspect the water trap for condensation buildup.
- Drain or replace if full.
- Ensure it is properly seated.
Why this matters:
Moisture accumulation can interfere with flow measurement and sensor calibration checks.
7. Restart the System
- Power down completely.
- Wait 30 seconds.
- Power back on and allow full self-test cycle to complete without interruption.
- Observe:
- Exact error message
- Any unusual sounds
- Whether failure occurs at a consistent stage
- Document the precise failure screen.
8. Remove Optional Accessories
- If equipped:
- Disconnect auxiliary monitors
- Remove external modules not required for operation
- Retry the self-test.
Why this matters:
Peripheral communication errors can cause startup faults.
If the Problem Persists
If:
- Gas supplies are verified
- Vaporizers are correctly seated
- Circuit integrity is confirmed
- Power source is stable
- Self-test consistently fails at the same stage
The issue is likely internal (sensor calibration failure, internal leak, power supply module fault, or board-level issue).
At this point:
- Remove the device from service
- Label it Out of Service
- Arrange for qualified repair or bench evaluation
Knowing when to stop external troubleshooting prevents unnecessary risk and protects patient safety.
Clinical Use Tip
Never troubleshoot a failed self-test on an active patient.
If the failure occurs during room setup:
- Move the patient to another anesthesia machine immediately.
- Do not attempt to bypass safety checks.
Self-tests are safety-critical on anesthesia delivery systems.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
“Anesthesia machine failed automatic self-test during morning setup. Will not enter ready mode.”
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
“Self-test failure traced to improperly seated vaporizer causing leak test error.”
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
“Reseated and locked vaporizer properly. Restarted system. Self-test completed successfully. Device returned to service.”
Helpful Details to Include
- Outlet verified and tested
- Gas pressures documented
- Specific error code recorded
- Vaporizers checked and secured
- Water trap inspected
- Final device status (Returned to Service or Sent to Repair)
Final Thought
An anesthesia machine self-test failure should always be approached methodically. Start with power, gas supply, vaporizers, and circuit assembly before assuming internal malfunction. Protect patient safety by removing the device from service when necessary, and document findings clearly to support continuity of care and technical accountability.
That is successful troubleshooting.