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What This Guide Helps With
CONTINUOUS PRESSURE !!! alarm indicating sustained elevated airway pressure for more than 15 seconds, which can lead to unsafe ventilation conditions and potential patient harm.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
1. Ensure Patient Safety First
- Immediately assess patient ventilation status
- Switch to manual ventilation or alternate device if pressure is unsafe
- Remove device from use if unable to safely control airway pressure
2. Verify the Reported Alarm and Behavior
- Confirm CONTINUOUS PRESSURE !!! alarm is active
- Observe when the alarm occurs (startup, ventilation, Man/Spont mode)
- Check airway pressure readings for sustained elevation
- Assess bag or ventilator behavior for resistance or abnormal function
3. Check Breathing Circuit for Obstruction or Kinking
- Inspect hoses for kinks or compression
- Check filters (HME, bacterial) for blockage
- Drain any water accumulation in tubing
- Verify Y-piece and connectors are clear
4. Check Patient Interface and Airway
- Verify endotracheal tube is not kinked or occluded
- Check for secretions or blockage
- Confirm proper placement and patency
5. Check APL Valve (ManSpont Mode)
- Ensure APL valve is not fully closed
- Adjust APL valve to appropriate setting
- Observe for reduction in airway pressure
6. Check Fresh Gas Flow Settings
- Verify fresh gas flow is not excessively high
- Adjust flow rates as appropriate for clinical use
7. Check Pressure Alarm Limits
- Review configured airway pressure alarm limits
- Ensure limits are appropriate for ventilation mode
- Compare with expected clinical values
8. Check for Valve or Internal Flow Restriction Indicators
- Listen for abnormal internal valve sounds
- Assess resistance during manual ventilation
- Check for persistent pressure despite open circuit and correct settings
If the Problem Persists
If all external causes have been ruled out and airway pressure remains elevated:
- Remove the device from service
- Label the device Out of Service
- Send for repair or bench evaluation
Clinical Use Tip
Never troubleshoot high airway pressure alarms on an active patient. Always move the patient to a backup device before investigating.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
"CONTINUOUS PRESSURE !!! alarm with sustained high airway pressure during ventilation."
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
"Breathing circuit kinked at Y-piece causing obstruction and elevated pressure."
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
"Repositioned breathing circuit, verified normal pressures, and confirmed alarm cleared."
Helpful Details to Include (If Known)
- Alarm behavior
- Accessories swapped
- Power behavior
- Environmental factors
- Indicator lights
- Final device status
Final Thought
Continuous pressure alarms indicate a potentially dangerous condition. Always prioritize patient safety, rule out simple airflow restrictions first, and escalate appropriately when internal faults are suspected.
That is successful troubleshooting.