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What This Guide Helps With
This guide assists Clinical Engineering in troubleshooting the ICU Medical Colleague infusion pump when it reports occlusion alarms despite a free-flowing line. These alarms often indicate resistance in the fluid path, but in many cases, they are caused by setup issues, tubing kinks, sensor misalignment, or cassette/door seating problems. The focus is on external, verifiable causes before assuming internal sensor or pump mechanism failure.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Verify the Alarm Message and Context
- Check the pump display for the exact occlusion message.
- Confirm if the alarm occurs during a specific infusion or at all times.
- Understanding the pattern helps determine if the issue is line-specific or device-specific.
Inspect Tubing Path and Connections
- Ensure tubing is free of kinks, twists, or tight clamps.
- Verify that all connections are secure and correctly seated in the pump cassette.
- Resistance anywhere in the fluid path can trigger false occlusion alarms.
Check Cassette and Door Seating
- Remove and reseat the infusion cassette per manufacturer instructions.
- Ensure the door is fully closed and latched. Improper seating can trigger occlusion detection.
Verify Infusion Setup
- Confirm that the correct tubing type and size are used for the pump.
- Ensure that the line pressure or height is appropriate for the fluid being delivered.
- Check for air bubbles or fluid viscosity that may cause intermittent occlusion alarms.
Swap Tubing or Cassette (If Available)
- Replace the tubing with a known good set.
- If the problem persists, try another pump cassette.
- This helps isolate whether the issue is consumable-related or pump-related.
Check Pump Settings and Software
- Ensure the pump software is up to date and infusion parameters are correct.
- Incorrect programming or outdated software can sometimes falsely trigger alarms.
If the Problem Persists
After confirming tubing integrity, cassette seating, and correct setup, the issue may be internal (occlusion sensor, pump mechanism).
Action: Remove the pump from service, label it Out of Service, and send for repair or bench evaluation.
Escalating appropriately protects patient safety and prevents unnecessary troubleshooting of internal components on-site.
Clinical Use Tip
Do not troubleshoot on an active patient. Move the patient to another pump first.
Troubleshoot only when it is safe and will not interrupt therapy.
Ensure alarms are silenced only after patient safety is secured.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
Pump triggers occlusion alarm even though line is free-flowing.
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
Tubing verified clear; cassette reseated; alarm persists. Likely internal sensor or mechanism issue.
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
Pump removed from service, labeled Out of Service, sent to Biomedical Engineering for repair.
Helpful Details to Include
- Tubing inspected and free of kinks.
- Cassette removed and reseated.
- Door latched properly.
- Alarm repeats despite line change.
- Software version verified.
- Final device status: Out of Service.
Final Thought
Patient safety is the priority. False occlusion alarms can often be resolved by verifying tubing, cassette, and setup, but knowing when to escalate to repair is essential. Proper CCR documentation ensures clarity and continuity in maintenance records.
That is successful troubleshooting.