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Asset Type
Manufacturer
Model
What This Guide Helps With
Identifies causes of bed height or tilt movement failure, including power, connection, actuator, and control issues before assuming internal motor or board failure.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Ensure Patient Safety
Confirm the patient is safely transferred to another bed or positioned securely. Never attempt movement troubleshooting with an active patient in the bed.
Verify Power Supply
- Check that the bed is plugged into a live outlet.
- Inspect the cord for visible damage.
- Expected outcome: Bed should show power indicator lights on the control panel.
Check Battery Backup
- If using battery backup, confirm battery is charged.
- Swap with a known good battery if possible.
- Expected outcome: Bed should operate normally on battery power.
Inspect Control Panel & Handset Connections
- Ensure handsets or side rail panels are securely connected.
- Look for loose cables or damaged connectors.
- Expected outcome: Buttons respond and indicator lights function.
Test Movement Functions Individually
- Attempt hi-lo and Trendelenburg movements separately.
- Listen for actuator noises or observe any movement.
- Expected outcome: Motors engage smoothly without unusual sounds.
Check for Obstructions or Mechanical Locking
- Ensure nothing is physically blocking actuator movement.
- Inspect caster brakes and bed frame alignment.
- Expected outcome: Bed moves freely without mechanical restriction.
Swap Actuator Cables if Accessible
- If multiple actuators share connectors, try swapping cables to isolate a faulty actuator.
- Expected outcome: Fault follows the actuator or cable.
If the Problem Persists
External checks have been exhausted. The issue may involve internal actuator failure, motor controller, or mainboard. Bed should be:
- Removed from service
- Labeled Out of Service
- Sent for repair or bench evaluation
Stopping here ensures safe and proper troubleshooting.
Clinical Use Tip
Never adjust hi-lo or Trendelenburg with a patient in bed. Always secure the patient in another bed or stretcher first to prevent injury.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
"Bed will not raise, lower, or tilt into Trendelenburg."
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
"Handset and power verified; actuator shows no response when tested."
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
"Bed removed from service and sent to repair for actuator evaluation."
Helpful Details to Include (If Known)
- Power outlet tested
- Battery charge checked
- Control panel lights functional
- Actuator sounds observed
- Mechanical obstructions cleared
- Bed status: Out of Service
Final Thought
Patient safety and methodical troubleshooting are critical. Starting with simple checks prevents unnecessary disassembly. Proper documentation ensures clear communication and supports repair follow-up.
That is successful troubleshooting.