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What This Guide Helps With
This guide addresses situations where the GE Avance anesthesia machine:
- Fails to power on
- Hangs, freezes, or locks during startup
- Displays error messages or fails self-tests
The focus is on external, easily verifiable causes first—such as power, connections, and environmental factors—before assuming internal electronic or software failure.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Verify Power Source
- Ensure the power cord is securely connected to the machine and wall outlet.
- Confirm the outlet has proper voltage using a meter or a known-working device.
- Check any inline power switches or circuit breakers.
Why: Insufficient or intermittent power can prevent proper booting.
Inspect the Power Cord and Connector
- Look for frayed cords, bent pins, or loose connections.
- Replace the cord if any damage is found.
Why: A faulty cord can cause startup failures or intermittent locking.
Check Battery and Backup Power (if applicable)
- If the machine has a battery module, ensure it is installed correctly and charged.
- Remove the battery and attempt startup on AC power only.
Why: A failing battery can interfere with booting or cause freezing.
Environmental and Setup Factors
- Verify ambient temperature is within manufacturer-specified limits.
- Ensure no peripheral modules or patient circuits are attached in a way that could prevent startup.
Why: Extreme temperatures or certain hardware conflicts may block boot.
Perform a Safe Power Cycle
- Disconnect AC power and battery (if applicable) for 1–2 minutes.
- Reconnect and power on the machine.
- Observe any messages or self-test results.
Why: Power cycling clears transient faults or software hangs.
Observe Startup Behavior
- Note any error codes or messages displayed on the screen.
- Document which stage the machine locks or fails.
Why: This information is critical for vendor service escalation.
If the Problem Persists
All external power, connections, and environment checks have been completed.
- Remove the machine from service.
- Label as Out of Service.
- Escalate to vendor service or Biomedical Engineering bench evaluation.
Remember: Avoid opening the machine internally; knowing when to stop prevents further damage.
Clinical Use Tip
- Never attempt to troubleshoot internal electronics while the machine is in use.
- Ensure another anesthesia machine is available for any active patient.
- Only attempt checks when patient safety is fully protected.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
“Machine will not boot; locks during startup, unable to perform self-test.”
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
“AC power verified; cord intact; battery removed and reinstalled; power cycle attempted; startup still fails.”
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
“Machine removed from service, labeled Out of Service, escalated to vendor for bench evaluation.”
Helpful Details to Include
- AC outlet verified and voltage documented
- Power cord and connectors inspected
- Battery presence and charge status noted
- Environmental conditions checked
- Error codes/messages observed
- Attempted power cycles
- Machine final status
Final Thought
Troubleshooting startup failures in anesthesia machines requires patience, methodical external checks, and immediate escalation when internal failure is suspected. Proper documentation ensures safety, accountability, and efficient vendor service.
That is successful troubleshooting.