On this page
Asset Type
Manufacturer
Model
What This Guide Helps With
This guide provides a structured Clinical Engineering approach when an ICU Medical CADD-Solis infusion pump has keypad issues, including:
- One or more buttons not responding
- Entire keypad unresponsive
- Delayed or intermittent button response
- Unable to program infusion due to keypad failure
The focus is on logical, external, and easily verifiable checks before assuming internal keypad membrane failure, ribbon cable issues, or PCB faults.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Ensure Patient Safety First
- If the pump is actively infusing and programming changes cannot be made:
- Transition the patient to another verified infusion pump before troubleshooting.
- Do not attempt prolonged troubleshooting on an active infusion.
- Patient care takes priority over device diagnosis.
Confirm the Pump Is Not Frozen
- Observe whether the display is updating normally.
- Check for active alarms or error messages.
- Attempt multiple buttons across different areas of the keypad.
- If the screen is static and no inputs respond, the pump may be frozen rather than experiencing keypad hardware failure.
Perform a Power Cycle
- Turn the pump off.
- Wait at least 10 seconds.
- Turn the pump back on and allow it to complete full boot sequence. @@ -109,98 +109,104 @@
- If only specific keys fail, membrane contact failure is likely.
- If all keys fail, suspect internal ribbon connection or main board issue.
Verify Battery and Power Status
- Ensure battery charge is adequate.
- Confirm pump is not in a low-voltage or fault state.
- Verify proper external power connection if plugged in.
- Low voltage conditions can cause erratic keypad behavior.
Observe and Document Behavior Pattern
- Note the following:
- Does the keypad work after reboot but fail later?
- Are only high-use keys affected?
- Does pressing firmly temporarily restore function?
- Is the failure constant or intermittent?
- Pattern recognition helps determine whether the issue is wear-related or internal.
If the Problem Persists
- If the keypad remains unresponsive after completing the steps above, common external causes have been ruled out.
- The issue is likely internal, such as:
- Keypad membrane failure
- Ribbon cable disconnection
- Main PCB fault
- At this point:
- Remove the pump from service.
- Label it Out of Service.
- Send for repair or Clinical Engineering bench evaluation.
- Knowing when to stop is proper troubleshooting. Bedside-level intervention should not include internal disassembly.
Clinical Use Tip
- Never attempt extended troubleshooting while a patient is dependent on the infusion. If programming is impaired, immediately transition therapy to another verified pump before removing the device from service.
- Avoid repeated forceful button pressing, as this may worsen membrane damage and create inconsistent behavior that complicates diagnosis.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
“Keypad buttons not responding; unable to program infusion.”
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
- “Pump power-cycled and inspected. Specific keypad buttons remain non-functional. Suspected keypad membrane failure.”
- “Entire keypad non-responsive after reboot. No visible membrane damage. Suspected internal PCB or ribbon cable issue.”
- “Keypad sticky from cleaning residue. After cleaning and drying, function restored.”
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
- “Removed pump from service, labeled Out of Service, sent for repair.”
- “Tagged for Clinical Engineering bench evaluation.”
- “Cleaned keypad surface per policy; functionality restored and returned to service.”
Helpful Details to Include (If Known)
- Power cycled (yes / no)
- Visible membrane damage (yes / no)
- Specific buttons affected
- Entire keypad unresponsive (yes / no)
- Signs of fluid intrusion
- Battery level at time of inspection
- Final device disposition
Final Thought
Most keypad issues are caused by temporary software freeze, membrane wear from high use, or cleaning-related damage. Internal failures do occur, especially in high-utilization environments, but should only be assumed after logical external checks are completed.
A structured approach protects patient safety, prevents unnecessary escalation, and ensures accurate documentation for repair tracking.
That is successful troubleshooting.