Asset Type
Sequential Compression Device (SCD)
Manufacturer
Model
Ensure Patient Safety First
- If the device is actively being used on a patient: Transfer the patient to another functioning SCD unit first.
- Do not troubleshoot a malfunctioning control panel on an active patient unless therapy is confirmed safe and uninterrupted.
- Patient safety takes priority over equipment evaluation.
Confirm the Unit Has Power
- Verify the unit is plugged into a known good outlet.
- Confirm the power switch is in the ON position.
- Listen for internal startup sounds (pump initialization or fan noise).
- Observe any LED indicators.
- If there are no lights and no startup sounds, the issue may be power-related rather than display-related. Refer to the “Will Not Turn On” troubleshooting process if needed.
- A blank screen is often a power issue.
Assess Screen Visibility
- Observe the screen closely in normal lighting.
- Shine a flashlight at an angle across the screen.
- Look for faint text or graphics.
- If text becomes visible under a flashlight, this strongly suggests backlight failure rather than full display failure.
- If the screen briefly lights and then goes dark, this may indicate a failing backlight or power regulation issue.
Check for a Frozen Interface
- Press multiple buttons.
- Observe whether indicator LEDs respond.
- Confirm whether sleeves continue inflating and cycling.
- If therapy continues but controls are unresponsive, this may indicate:
- Software logic freeze
- Keypad membrane failure
- Control board issue
- If nothing responds at all, suspect a deeper display/control failure.
Power Cycle the Unit
- Turn the unit OFF.
- Unplug from the wall (if applicable).
- Wait at least 10 seconds.
- Restore power and allow full startup sequence.
- Temporary logic faults can cause display freezing or keypad lockout. A proper power cycle may restore normal function.
- Observe startup behavior carefully:
- Does the screen briefly flash?
- Is there a normal startup beep?
- Are partial segments visible?
Inspect for Physical Damage
- Visually inspect the front panel:
- Cracks in the display window
- Signs of liquid intrusion
- Warping or pressure marks
- Sticky or physically stuck buttons
- Gently press each button to check for tactile feedback.
- Physical damage commonly causes intermittent or non-responsive controls.
Check for Intermittent Behavior
- With the unit powered on:
- Gently move the device.
- Lightly tap near the display area.
- Observe whether the screen flickers or partially returns.
- Intermittent flickering may indicate a loose internal ribbon cable or failing connection.
- Do not open the unit unless authorized and within scope of practice.
If the Display or Controls Remain Malfunctioning
- After completing the steps above, you have:
- Verified incoming power
- Ruled out brightness/backlight visibility issues
- Attempted power cycling
- Checked for physical damage
- Observed startup behavior
- Confirmed therapy operation status
- At this point, the issue is likely internal, such as:
- Display panel failure
- Backlight failure
- Keypad membrane failure
- Internal control board malfunction
- Ribbon cable connection issue
- These are not bedside-correctable issues.
- The unit should be:
- Removed from service
- Clearly labeled Out of Service
- Sent for bench evaluation by Clinical Engineering
Clinical Use Tip
- Never rely on a unit with a non-functional display or control panel for active therapy.
- If settings cannot be verified or adjusted, therapy parameters cannot be confirmed. Always transfer the patient to a functioning device before removing a malfunctioning unit from service.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
“Display blank; unit powers on but no visible text.”
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
“Power verified. Unit power cycled. No visible backlight or response from control panel. Suspected display/backlight failure.”
“Therapy running but control panel non-responsive after power cycle. Suspected internal control board or keypad failure.”
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
“Removed device from service; labeled Out of Service; sent to CE shop for bench evaluation.”
“Tagged Out of Service due to display/control malfunction; awaiting internal repair.”
Helpful Details to Include (If Known)
- Outlet verified functional
- Startup beep present (yes/no)
- Screen completely blank or faint image visible
- Buttons responsive (yes/no)
- Therapy running despite display issue (yes/no)
- Visible physical damage present (yes/no)
- Unit removed from service (yes/no)
- Final device status
That is successful troubleshooting.