Kendall SCD 700 Series

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What This Guide Helps With

This guide provides a structured Clinical Engineering approach when one or more sleeves connected to a Kendall SCD 700 Series unit are not inflating properly.

Common symptoms include:

One leg inflates but the other does not
Both sleeves connected but neither inflates
Partial inflation or weak compression
Machine running but no pressure delivered

This guide focuses on simple, external, and easily verifiable causes before assuming internal pump or valve failure.

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting

Confirm the Unit Is Powered and Therapy Is Started

Verify the unit is powered on.
Confirm there are no active alarms preventing therapy.
Ensure therapy has been started (unit powered on alone does not initiate compression).

A common oversight is the device being powered but not actively running therapy.

Check Sleeve and Tubing Connections

Confirm tubing is fully seated into the correct port.
Push connectors firmly until fully engaged.
Inspect for partially disconnected or loose fittings.
Swap left and right ports to see if the issue follows the sleeve or remains with the port.

Loose or partially seated connectors are the most common cause of one sleeve not inflating.

Inspect the Tubing for Kinks or Damage

Follow the entire tubing length from unit to sleeve.
Check for sharp bends or kinks.
Ensure tubing is not pinched under bed rails, wheels, or mattress frames.
Inspect for cracks, punctures, or separation at connection points.

Even a small leak will prevent the system from building pressure.

Inspect the Sleeves

Visually inspect for:

Tears or punctures
Separated seams
Worn or ineffective Velcro
Improper wrapping

Ensure sleeves are wrapped snugly but not overly tight. Improper fit can prevent pressure buildup or cause uneven compression.

Swap Sleeves to Isolate the Issue

Disconnect both sleeves.
Connect the left sleeve to the right port and vice versa.
Restart therapy and observe.

If the issue follows the sleeve → the sleeve is likely defective.
If the issue stays with the same port → suspect an internal valve or channel issue.

This step is critical for isolating accessory failure versus device failure.

Check for Alarm Messages

Document any alarm messages exactly as displayed, such as:

Leak detected
Disconnected tubing
Pressure fault

Alarm wording helps determine whether the system is sensing a leak or failing to generate pressure.

Listen for Pump Operation

Start therapy and listen carefully:

Pump audible and cycling → air movement is occurring.
Pump running but no inflation → possible internal valve or manifold issue.
No pump sound → possible internal motor or control board issue.

Avoid opening the device. Internal repair is not a bedside procedure.

If the Problem Persists

If the sleeves still do not inflate after completing all external checks, you have ruled out:

Therapy not started
Loose or disconnected tubing
Kinked or damaged tubing
Defective sleeves
Alarm-related interruptions

The issue is likely internal, such as:

Internal valve failure
Pump motor malfunction
Pressure sensor fault
Internal manifold leak

Remove the unit from service
Clearly label it “Out of Service”
Send for bench evaluation or repair

Knowing when to stop and escalate is proper troubleshooting.

Clinical Use Tip

Do not troubleshoot sleeve inflation while actively connected to a patient requiring therapy.

If compression therapy is clinically indicated:

Move the patient to a functioning SCD unit first.
Then remove the suspected unit from service for evaluation.

Patient safety and uninterrupted therapy take priority over troubleshooting speed.

Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)

CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution

Complaint

What was reported by the clinical staff.

Example:

“One sleeve not inflating; right leg receiving no compression.”

Cause

What was observed during troubleshooting.

Example:

“Tubing and sleeve inspected. Swapped sleeves; issue followed right sleeve. Sleeve leaking.”
or
“Swapped sleeves and ports. Issue remained on left port. Suspected internal valve failure.”

Resolution

What action was taken.

Example:

“Replaced defective sleeve; unit tested and returned to service.”
or
“Removed device from service and sent to shop for internal repair.”

Helpful Details to Include (If Known)

Which side affected (left/right/both)
Exact alarm messages displayed
Whether sleeves were swapped
Whether issue followed sleeve or stayed with port
Tubing condition (intact/kinked/damaged)
Pump audible (yes/no)
Final device status (returned to service or removed)

Final Thought

Most sleeve inflation problems are accessory-related rather than internal failures. Logical, external troubleshooting protects patients, prevents unnecessary equipment swaps, and supports accurate documentation. Escalate only after simple causes have been ruled out.

That is successful troubleshooting.