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Manufacturer
Model
What This Guide Helps With
Identifies causes for bellows failing to rise/fall or delivering insufficient tidal volumes, including power, circuit, or valve issues before patient exposure.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Ensure Patient Safety
- Confirm no patient is connected.
- Move the patient to an alternate anesthesia workstation if ventilation is required.
Check Power and Machine Status
- Verify the machine is powered on and all self-tests completed.
- Confirm no alarms indicating system faults are present.
Inspect Circuit Connections
- Check that all breathing circuit hoses, inspiratory/expiratory limbs, and reservoir bag are securely connected.
- Look for kinks or obstructions that can impede bellows movement.
Assess Oxygen and Gas Supply
- Ensure oxygen and anesthetic gas sources are connected and pressure is adequate.
- Low supply pressure can reduce tidal volume or prevent bellows cycling.
Examine Bellows Assembly
- Ensure the bellows are correctly seated in the housing.
- Check for visible tears, leaks, or moisture inside the bellows that could affect expansion.
Check Scavenging and Expiratory Valves
- Confirm expiratory valve is not stuck or blocked.
- Inspect scavenging connections for obstruction, which can impede bellows recoil.
Run a Test Ventilation (Without Patient)
- Select a known safe volume and frequency.
- Observe if bellows cycle normally.
- If cycling improves after corrections above, the issue is resolved.
If the Problem Persists
Common external causes have been ruled out; internal mechanical or sensor failure is likely.
- Remove the machine from service.
- Label as Out of Service and send for repair or bench evaluation.
- Stopping here avoids unsafe patient exposure and ensures proper escalation.
Clinical Use Tip
Never attempt troubleshooting on a patient requiring ventilation.
Always transfer the patient to another machine before investigating bellows issues.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
"Bellows not cycling; tidal volume low during pre-use check."
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
"Circuit misconnected and bellows improperly seated."
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
"Corrected circuit connections, reseated bellows, verified normal cycling with test ventilation."
Helpful Details to Include (If Known)
- Outlet tested and confirmed
- Bellows visually inspected
- Circuit connections verified
- No unusual sounds or leaks noted
- Final device status: ready for service after test ventilation
Final Thought
Bellows issues can often be traced to simple external causes like misalignment, kinks, or low gas pressure. Logical troubleshooting protects patients, preserves equipment, and ensures clear documentation for future reference. Escalate only when external causes are ruled out.
That is successful troubleshooting.