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What This Guide Helps With
EXP PRESSURE HI !! alarm indicating elevated expiratory pressure above the set PEEP value, which can lead to improper ventilation and increased airway pressure risk.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Ensure Patient Safety First
- Immediately assess the patient’s ventilation status
- If pressures are unsafe, remove device from use
- Switch to manual ventilation or alternate anesthesia machine
Verify the Reported Alarm and Behavior
- Confirm EXP PRESSURE HI !! alarm is displayed
- Compare measured airway pressure to set PEEP
- Observe timing of alarm (startup vs during ventilation)
Check Breathing Circuit for Obstruction or Kinks
- Inspect inspiratory and expiratory hoses
- Check Y-piece and connectors
- Look for water buildup or blocked filters/HMEs
Inspect PEEP and PMAX Hose Lines
- Check for kinks or compression in pressure control hoses
- Ensure proper routing and secure connections
- Verify hoses are not pinched or disconnected
Check Adjustable Pressure Limiting (APL) Valve
- Ensure APL valve is not partially closed
- Verify correct positioning if recently used in manual mode
- Confirm proper transition to automatic ventilation mode
Check for Expiratory Valve Function Issues
- Observe for delayed or restricted exhalation
- Listen for abnormal airflow resistance
- Watch pressure waveform for incomplete return to baseline
Verify Ventilator Settings
- Check PEEP setting
- Confirm PMAX and pressure limits
- Ensure settings match intended clinical use
Perform a System Reset
- Place unit in standby mode
- Return to previous ventilation mode
- Check if alarm clears
If the Problem Persists
If all external causes have been ruled out and the alarm continues:
- Remove the device from service
- Label Out of Service
- Send for repair or bench evaluation
Clinical Use Tip
Never troubleshoot elevated airway pressure alarms on an active patient. Always secure ventilation using a backup device first.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
"EXP PRESSURE HI !! alarm during ventilation with elevated airway pressure."
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
"Kinked breathing circuit causing restricted exhalation and elevated expiratory pressure."
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
"Replaced circuit and confirmed normal pressures, alarm cleared."
Helpful Details to Include (If Known)
- Alarm behavior
- Accessories swapped
- Power behavior
- Environmental factors
- Indicator lights
- Final device status
Final Thought
High expiratory pressure alarms are commonly caused by simple external restrictions but can quickly impact patient safety. Always begin with the breathing circuit and hose integrity before escalating to internal component concerns.
That is successful troubleshooting.