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Asset Type
Manufacturer
Model
What This Guide Helps With
Identifies causes for failed system self-tests or pre-use checks, including power, sensor, connection, or environmental issues before clinical use.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Ensure Patient Safety
- Confirm no patient is connected to the device.
- Move the patient to an alternate anesthesia machine if needed.
- Why: Avoids patient risk during troubleshooting.
Check Power Supply
- Verify machine is plugged into a verified, live hospital outlet.
- Confirm battery (if present) is charged and installed correctly.
- Expected: Power-on sequence initiates without errors.
Verify Environmental Conditions
- Check ambient temperature, humidity, and airflow around the machine.
- Ensure no obstructions around vents or oxygen supply lines.
- Why: Extreme conditions can cause self-test failures.
Inspect Gas and Electrical Connections
- Confirm oxygen, air, and vacuum lines are connected and pressurized.
- Verify electrical connections and grounding.
- Expected: All lines and indicators show normal pressure and connectivity.
Check Accessories and Sensors
- Ensure vaporizers are seated and recognized.
- Check breathing circuit, CO₂, O₂, and pressure sensors for correct installation.
- Expected: Machine recognizes all modules without error.
Run Self-Test Again
- Power cycle the machine and initiate the system self-test or pre-use check.
- Observe the display for error codes or warnings.
- Expected: Self-test completes successfully.
Document Error Codes
- Record any error codes, beeps, or indicator lights for further reference.
If the Problem Persists
All external causes (power, connections, sensors, environment) have been ruled out.
Remove the machine from service and label it Out of Service.
Send the machine for vendor service or internal bench evaluation.
Knowing when to escalate prevents patient risk and unnecessary troubleshooting.
Clinical Use Tip
Never attempt troubleshooting with a patient on the machine.
Always have a backup anesthesia machine available before performing self-tests.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
"Primus IE failed pre-use check with system error displayed."
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
"Self-test failure due to unrecognized vaporizer module during setup."
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
"Verified connections, reseated vaporizer, and reran self-test successfully. Device returned to service."
Helpful Details to Include
- Outlet and circuit tested
- All gas lines pressurized
- Vaporizers and sensors seated correctly
- Any error codes or abnormal sounds recorded
- Device status after troubleshooting
Final Thought
Following a logical, stepwise troubleshooting process ensures patient safety, prevents unnecessary service calls, and provides clear documentation. Escalation should occur only after external causes are ruled out.
That is successful troubleshooting.