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What This Guide Helps With
This guide addresses situations where the Aisys CS2 anesthesia machine:
- Fails its automatic system self-check on startup
- Displays error messages or alarms during the self-test
- Does not transition to “ready for use” status
The focus is on verifying external factors and setup issues before assuming internal component failure.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Verify AC Power and Battery Backup
- Ensure the machine is plugged into a working hospital-grade outlet.
- Check that the AC power indicator is illuminated.
- If the machine has battery backup, verify that it is charged.
Why: Power irregularities can cause self-check failures.
Inspect Main Circuit Breaker and Fuses
- Confirm that the internal circuit breaker has not tripped.
- Check accessible fuses for continuity if safe to do so.
Why: Electrical protection mechanisms can prevent startup.
Check Environmental Conditions
- Ensure the machine is at the proper operating temperature (15–30°C / 59–86°F).
- Avoid high humidity or condensation on internal sensors.
Why: Extreme conditions can prevent accurate self-checks.
Examine Gas Supplies and Connections
- Confirm that oxygen, nitrous oxide, and air supplies are connected and turned on.
- Check hoses and fittings for leaks or kinks.
- Verify pipeline pressures are within manufacturer specifications.
Why: Gas supply failures can trigger system self-check errors.
Inspect Breathing Circuit and Vaporizer Installation
- Ensure vaporizers are properly seated and locked.
- Check the breathing circuit for correct assembly and no obstructions.
Why: Improper installation can prevent the machine from passing self-tests.
Perform a Restart Sequence
- Power down the machine fully, wait 30 seconds, and power up again.
- Observe if the self-check progresses further or displays the same error.
Why: Some self-test failures are transient and cleared by a full restart.
If the Problem Persists
External factors and setup errors have been ruled out. The self-check failure likely indicates an internal hardware or software fault.
- Remove the machine from service.
- Label it Out of Service.
- Send to GE Healthcare service or your biomedical repair bench for evaluation.
Escalation prevents patient risk and avoids further damage.
Clinical Use Tip
Do not attempt patient care on a machine that fails self-check. Move the patient to a verified working anesthesia machine before troubleshooting. Ensure patient safety is maintained at all times.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
Self-check failed during machine startup; error displayed “System Self-Test Failure.”
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
Confirmed all external power, gas, and circuit connections; machine continues to fail self-test.
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
Removed machine from service, labeled Out of Service, and sent for repair.
Helpful Details to Include
- AC power outlet tested
- Battery backup checked
- Gas pipeline pressures verified
- Vaporizers seated properly
- Breathing circuit checked
- Restart attempted
- Final status: Out of Service
Final Thought
Patient safety is paramount. Logical, stepwise troubleshooting ensures external causes are ruled out before assuming internal failure. Proper documentation allows follow-up repair and compliance with safety protocols. Escalating appropriately protects patients and equipment.
That is successful troubleshooting.