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What This Guide Helps With
Airway pressure negative alarm indicating sub-atmospheric pressure, often caused by circuit disconnection, suctioning, or misconnection impacting ventilation delivery.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Ensure Patient Safety First
- Immediately assess the patient
- If ventilation is compromised, provide alternate ventilation (bag-valve mask or backup ventilator)
- Confirm adequate oxygenation and ventilation
Verify the Reported Alarm and Behavior
- Confirm the “Airway pressure negative” alarm is active
- Observe when the alarm occurs (startup, during therapy, intermittent)
- Check displayed pressure values and ventilation performance
Check for Active Suctioning
- Ask staff if suctioning is currently being performed
- Observe for suction catheter use
- Pause troubleshooting until suctioning is complete
Inspect Breathing Circuit Connections
- Verify inspiratory and expiratory limbs are securely connected
- Check for disconnected or loose tubing
- Ensure proper circuit routing
Check for Circuit Leaks or Open Pathways
- Inspect for open ports, missing caps, or loose fittings
- Check humidifier, filters, and inline accessories
- Ensure the system is fully sealed
Assess Patient Interface (ET Tube or Mask)
- Verify ET tube connection and security
- Check cuff inflation if applicable
- Inspect mask seal for non-invasive ventilation
Evaluate Pressure Readings and System Response
- Monitor airway pressure waveforms
- Confirm pressure returns to expected values during ventilation
- Observe for stable operation
Stop When Resolved
- Return ventilator to service once alarm clears
- Continue monitoring for recurrence
If the Problem Persists
If the alarm continues after all external causes are ruled out:
- Remove the ventilator from service
- Label as Out of Service
- Send for repair or bench evaluation
Clinical Use Tip
Never troubleshoot on an active patient. Move the patient to a backup ventilation device before investigating alarms.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
"Ventilator alarming ‘Airway pressure negative’ during patient ventilation with intermittent pressure loss."
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
"Loose expiratory limb connection causing pressure drop below expected range."
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
"Reconnected and secured circuit, verified proper routing, confirmed normal pressure readings and alarm resolution."
Helpful Details to Include (If Known)
- Alarm behavior
- Accessories swapped
- Power behavior
- Environmental factors
- Indicator lights
- Final device status
Final Thought
Negative airway pressure alarms typically indicate a loss of system integrity such as leaks, disconnections, or suctioning effects. Focus on external causes first, confirm proper setup, and escalate when necessary to maintain safe and reliable ventilation.
That is successful troubleshooting.