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Model
What This Guide Helps With
Stretcher not raising or lowering, slow movement, or no response due to hydraulic, lock, or external mechanical issues.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Ensure Patient Safety First
- Remove the stretcher from active patient use before troubleshooting.
- Expected: Patient safely transferred to another device.
Verify the Reported Issue
- Operate the lift controls (handle, pedal, or release mechanism) and observe movement.
- Expected: Confirmed failure, sluggish movement, or no response.
- Why it matters: Confirms true hydraulic issue vs user operation error.
Check for Obstructions or Load Issues
- Inspect undercarriage and frame for debris, bent components, or interference.
- Ensure load is within rated capacity.
- Expected: No physical obstruction or excessive load.
- Why it matters: Mechanical blockage can prevent proper lift operation.
- If cleared and function returns → stop troubleshooting.
Verify Proper Operation of Release/Control Mechanism
- Operate the lift handle or release lever while observing linkage movement.
- Expected: Smooth mechanical engagement of lift mechanism.
- Why it matters: A disconnected or misaligned linkage can prevent hydraulic actuation.
- If linkage is loose or not engaging → note for escalation.
Inspect for Hydraulic Resistance or Free Movement
- Attempt to raise/lower while feeling for resistance or “dead travel.”
- Expected: Controlled resistance during operation.
- Why it matters:
- No resistance → possible hydraulic fluid loss or internal failure
- Excess resistance → possible binding or mechanical restriction
Check for Hydraulic Fluid Leaks
- Inspect hydraulic cylinder, lines, and surrounding frame for oil residue or wetness.
- Expected: No visible leaks.
- Why it matters: Fluid loss leads to loss of lifting capability.
- If leak is present → remove from service.
Evaluate Lift Speed and Stability
- Observe if movement is slow, uneven, or drifting under load.
- Expected: Smooth and stable height adjustment.
- Why it matters: Internal seal wear or air in the system can cause instability.
- If unstable → likely internal hydraulic issue.
Cycle the Lift Multiple Times (No Load)
- Raise and lower the stretcher fully without a patient.
- Expected: Consistent performance through full range.
- Why it matters: Helps identify intermittent or partial hydraulic failure.
- If performance improves → possible minor air or temporary issue.
If the Problem Persists
If all external checks have been completed and the lift function is still not operating correctly, the issue is likely internal to the hydraulic system.
Remove the stretcher from service, label it Out of Service, and send for repair or bench evaluation.
Knowing when to stop prevents unsafe use and is part of proper Clinical Engineering troubleshooting.
Clinical Use Tip
Do not troubleshoot lift or height functions with a patient on the stretcher. Always transfer the patient first to prevent injury from sudden movement or collapse.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
"Stretcher would not raise or lower during patient transport."
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
"Hydraulic system showed no resistance and visible fluid leak at cylinder."
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
"Removed stretcher from service and sent to vendor for hydraulic repair."
Helpful Details to Include (If Known)
- Lift handle/pedal response
- Presence of hydraulic leaks
- Smooth vs jerky movement
- Load conditions at time of failure
- Any unusual noises during operation
- Final device status (in service vs removed)
Final Thought
Hydraulic lift failures are often mechanical or fluid-related, but always start with simple external checks. Prioritize patient safety, rule out obstructions and linkage issues, and escalate appropriately when internal failure is suspected. Clear documentation supports repair decisions and future trend analysis.
That is successful troubleshooting.