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What This Guide Helps With
PRES THRESHOLD LOW ! alarm indicating airway pressure alarm limits are set too low relative to ventilation settings, which can result in nuisance alarms or inaccurate pressure monitoring.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Ensure Patient Safety First
- Confirm the patient is being ventilated safely and effectively
- If alarm reliability is questionable, transition to alternate ventilation
- Ensure appropriate monitoring is in place
Verify the Reported Alarm and Behavior
- Confirm the PRES THRESHOLD LOW ! alarm is displayed
- Observe when the alarm appears (startup, after setting changes, during ventilation)
- Compare airway pressure readings to alarm limits
Check Current Ventilator Settings
- Review PINSP, PEEP, tidal volume, and ventilation mode
- Identify any recent changes in ventilation parameters
Check Pressure Alarm Limits
- Access alarm settings menu
- Review high and low pressure thresholds
- Compare limits to expected operating pressures
Use AutoSet Function
- Press the AutoSet softkey
- Allow the machine to automatically adjust alarm limits
- Verify alarm clears after adjustment
Manually Adjust Alarm Limits (If Needed)
- Set appropriate high and low pressure limits manually
- Ensure limits provide a safe margin around expected pressures
Confirm Alarm Resolution
- Verify the alarm is no longer present
- Observe multiple ventilation cycles
- Ensure stable pressure readings within limits
If the Problem Persists
If the alarm continues after proper adjustment, external and configuration causes have been ruled out. Remove the device from service, label it Out of Service, and send it for repair or bench evaluation.
Clinical Use Tip
Never troubleshoot alarm settings on an active patient. Always transition the patient to a backup device before making adjustments.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
"Unit displaying PRES THRESHOLD LOW ! alarm during ventilation after parameter changes."
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
"Pressure alarm thresholds not aligned with updated ventilator settings."
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
"Used AutoSet to adjust alarm limits and verified proper operation. Alarm cleared."
Helpful Details to Include (If Known)
- Alarm behavior
- Accessories swapped
- Power behavior
- Environmental factors
- Indicator lights
- Final device status
Final Thought
Alarm conditions like this are often due to configuration mismatches rather than equipment failure. Proper alignment of alarm thresholds ensures accurate monitoring and safe patient care.
That is successful troubleshooting.