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What This Guide Helps With
This guide addresses situations where the Kangaroo ePump feeding pump:
- Fails to power on
- Powers off unexpectedly
- Shows low battery warnings despite charging
- Does not hold a charge
The focus is on external, easily verifiable causes first—such as battery condition, charger, and connections—before assuming internal battery or electronics failure.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Verify External Power Source
- Ensure the pump is connected to a known working AC outlet.
- Check for tripped breakers or faulty outlets.
Why: If the outlet is dead, the pump cannot charge or operate.
Inspect Power Cord and AC Adapter
- Examine the power cord and adapter for cuts, frays, or bent prongs.
- Swap with a known good adapter if available.
Why: Damaged cords can prevent charging or intermittent power.
Check Battery Seating
- Remove the battery and reseat it firmly.
- Ensure contacts are clean, free of debris, and not corroded.
Why: Poor contact can prevent the pump from drawing power.
Verify Battery Charge Level
- Allow the pump to charge for the recommended minimum time (typically several hours).
- Observe battery indicator lights for charging status.
Why: A deeply discharged battery may need extended charging.
Swap with Known Good Battery (if available)
- Install a fully charged spare battery to see if the pump powers on.
Why: Confirms whether the battery or pump electronics are at fault.
Inspect for Visible Damage
- Look for signs of liquid exposure, cracks, or impact damage.
Why: External damage can cause internal power issues or short circuits.
Perform Soft Reset (if recommended by manufacturer)
- Follow the ePump manual procedure for reset or power cycle.
Why: Clears temporary errors that can prevent boot-up.
If the Problem Persists
External causes (power source, cord, battery seating) have been ruled out.
Likely internal battery failure, charging circuit, or mainboard issue.
Action:
- Remove the pump from service.
- Label Out of Service.
- Send for repair or bench evaluation.
Note: Knowing when to escalate is proper troubleshooting.
Clinical Use Tip
- Do not troubleshoot on an active feeding patient.
- Transfer the patient to another working pump before testing.
- Always ensure backup feeding options are available.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
“Pump will not turn on and shows battery empty.”
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
“Battery seated correctly but failed to hold charge; AC adapter verified working.”
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
“Pump removed from service, labeled Out of Service, sent for repair/bench evaluation.”
Helpful Details to Include
- Outlet tested and functional
- AC adapter swapped and verified
- Battery inspected for corrosion or swelling
- Charging indicator behavior observed
- Pump response to soft reset
- Any unusual sounds or smells
Final Thought
Patient safety and logic-based troubleshooting are paramount. Start with external verifications before assuming internal failure. Accurate documentation ensures proper follow-up and helps track recurring issues. Escalation when necessary is part of responsible device management.
That is successful troubleshooting.