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What This Guide Helps With
This guide addresses situations where the Hillrom Centrella Smart+ bed triggers bed exit alarms incorrectly. Symptoms may include:
- Alarm sounds while patient remains in bed
- Inconsistent or intermittent alarm behavior
- Alarm stops after re-positioning the patient
The focus is on simple, external checks before considering internal device faults.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Verify Bed Position and Brakes
- Ensure the bed is fully lowered and brakes are engaged.
- Why: Some sensors require proper bed leveling and brake engagement to function correctly.
Check Mattress and Sensor Pad Placement
- Confirm the mattress is correctly seated and any integrated sensor pads are properly positioned.
- Why: Misaligned pads or folds can trigger false alarms.
Inspect Bed Exit Sensor Connections
- Check that cables from the bed exit sensor are securely connected to the control module.
- Look for visible damage, pinched wires, or loose connectors.
Confirm Control Module Settings
- Access the bed’s control panel and verify bed exit sensitivity settings.
- Adjust sensitivity or reset to default if values seem incorrect.
- Why: Overly sensitive settings can trigger alarms unnecessarily.
Power Cycle the Bed
- Turn the bed off, wait 10–15 seconds, then power back on.
- Why: Resets sensors and software, clearing transient false alarms.
Check Environmental Factors
- Ensure there’s no interference from equipment under or near the bed (IV poles, cables, sheets obstructing sensors).
- Why: Obstructions can trigger sensors falsely.
If the Problem Persists
External checks have ruled out common causes.
The issue may be internal (sensor malfunction or control module fault).
Action:
- Remove bed from service
- Label Out of Service
- Send for bench evaluation or Hillrom service
Knowing when to escalate prevents patient safety risks and unnecessary troubleshooting.
Clinical Use Tip
- Do not attempt troubleshooting on a patient in the bed.
- Move patient to a backup bed before performing checks.
- Ensure alarms are operational on alternate beds to maintain safety.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
“Nurse reports bed exit alarm sounds while patient remains in bed.”
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
“Bed exit sensor pad misaligned; control panel sensitivity set too high.”
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
“Repositioned sensor pad, adjusted sensitivity to default, and power cycled bed. Alarm now operates normally.”
Helpful Details to Include
- Bed fully lowered and brakes engaged
- Sensor pad alignment
- Cable connections checked
- Sensitivity settings verified
- Power cycle performed
- Bed labeled and status updated
Final Thought
Proper troubleshooting ensures patient safety, prevents false alarms, and allows the bed to function reliably. Always perform external checks first and escalate appropriately when internal faults are suspected. Documentation ensures accountability and repeatable troubleshooting practices.
That is successful troubleshooting.