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Model
What This Guide Helps With
Failure to charge or deliver shock, including no charge tone, delayed charging, or shock button not activating due to pads, battery, or system faults.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Ensure Patient Safety First
- If the device is in use during an emergency and fails to deliver therapy, immediately switch to a backup defibrillator
- Continue CPR per protocol
Expected: Patient care is not interrupted
Why it matters: Shock failure is a critical event and requires immediate backup intervention
Verify the Reported Issue
- Power on the AED and observe behavior during a simulated or test scenario (if safe to do so)
- Listen for charge tones
- Observe prompts related to charging or shock delivery
- Check if the shock button activates when prompted
Expected: Device should charge and prompt for shock when indicated
Why it matters: Confirms whether the issue is reproducible or intermittent
Check PAD-Pak Installation (Most Common Cause)
- Remove and reseat the PAD-Pak (battery + electrode cartridge)
- Ensure it is fully inserted and latched
- Check expiration date on the PAD-Pak
Expected: Device recognizes PAD-Pak and proceeds normally
Why it matters: The PAD-Pak supplies both energy and electrodes—improper seating prevents charging
Inspect Electrode Pad Condition and Connection
- Verify pads are properly connected (integrated with PAD-Pak)
- Check for damaged, dried, or expired pads
- Ensure pads are not previously used
Expected: Pads are intact and recognized by the device
Why it matters: Poor pad condition or connection can prevent safe shock delivery
Check for Audible and Visual Prompts
- Listen for prompts such as:
- “Analyzing” but no “Charging”
- “Check pads” or similar warnings
- Observe status indicator and any LED behavior
Expected: Clear transition from analysis → charging → shock prompt
Why it matters: Missing steps indicate where the failure is occurring
Verify Battery Capability (PAD-Pak Condition)
- Check expiration date
- Replace with a known-good PAD-Pak if available
Expected: Device initiates charging with a fresh PAD-Pak
Why it matters: Low battery capacity prevents adequate energy buildup for shock delivery
Check Environmental and Storage Conditions
- Ensure device is within operating temperature range
- Look for signs of moisture or contamination
Expected: Device operates within normal conditions
Why it matters: Extreme environments can affect battery performance and internal charging circuits
Power Cycle and Reattempt Operation
- Turn the unit off
- Wait a few seconds
- Power back on and repeat test
Expected: Device proceeds through normal operation
Why it matters: Clears temporary faults or software glitches
If the Problem Persists
If PAD-Pak, pads, and external conditions have been verified and the device still fails to charge or deliver a shock:
- The issue is likely internal (charging circuit, capacitor, or control system failure)
- Remove the device from service
- Label Out of Service
- Send for repair or bench evaluation
Knowing when to stop prevents unnecessary risk and ensures patient safety.
Clinical Use Tip
Never troubleshoot a defibrillator while it is assigned to active patient care. Always replace it with a functioning unit before testing or evaluation.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
"AED failed to charge and did not deliver shock during readiness check."
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
"Expired PAD-Pak with insufficient battery capacity prevented charging."
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
"Replaced PAD-Pak with new unit and verified successful charge and shock prompt during test."
Helpful Details to Include (If Known)
- PAD-Pak expiration date checked
- PAD-Pak reseated or replaced
- Status indicator condition (green/red/no light)
- Audible prompts during operation
- Environmental conditions (temperature, storage)
- Whether shock button activated
- Final device status after testing
Final Thought
Shock delivery failures must be approached with urgency and a structured process. Always rule out pads and battery first, prioritize patient safety, and escalate appropriately when internal faults are suspected. Clear documentation ensures reliability and accountability.
That is successful troubleshooting.