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What This Guide Helps With
Troubleshooting channel blockage or flow-related alarms caused by scope connections, tubing issues, filters, or flow restrictions preventing proper reprocessing.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Ensure Patient Safety First
- Do not troubleshoot with a contaminated or patient-used scope connected.
- Remove the scope and follow proper infection control procedures before continuing.
Verify the Reported Alarm and Behavior
- Note if alarm occurs during fill, wash, or rinse phase.
- Check if the cycle stops immediately or attempts to continue.
Check Scope Channel Connections (Most Common Cause)
- Verify all scope channel connectors are attached correctly.
- Ensure correct port-to-channel mapping.
- Disconnect and firmly reconnect all lines.
Inspect Channel Tubing for Kinks or Occlusions
- Inspect all tubing for bends, kinks, or compression.
- Ensure tubing is not pinched behind the unit or door.
- Replace damaged tubing if needed.
Check for Internal or External Blockage in the Scope
- Verify the scope was properly pre-cleaned.
- Flush channels manually if appropriate.
- Substitute with a known good scope to compare behavior.
Inspect Water Supply and Pressure
- Verify water supply valves are fully open.
- Check inlet hoses for kinks or restrictions.
- Confirm adequate facility water pressure.
Check Filters and Strainers
- Inspect inlet water filters and internal strainers (if accessible).
- Clean or replace filters per facility protocol.
Inspect Drain Line for Restrictions
- Ensure drain hose is not kinked or elevated improperly.
- Check for slow drainage or backup.
- Verify facility drain is clear.
Restart Cycle After Corrections
- Run a cycle without a scope (if allowed).
- Then test with a known good scope.
If the Problem Persists
If all external causes have been ruled out, the issue is likely internal (flow sensors, valves, or pump failure).
Remove the unit from service, label it Out of Service, and send for repair or bench evaluation.
Knowing when to stop prevents unnecessary risk and protects equipment integrity.
Clinical Use Tip
Do not attempt to troubleshoot flow errors with a contaminated scope or during active clinical workflow. Always use a cleaned or test scope when verifying operation.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
"AER displaying channel blockage alarm and stopping mid-cycle during reprocessing."
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
"Kinked channel tubing restricting flow to scope lumen."
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
"Tubing repositioned and verified unobstructed; system tested and returned to service."
Helpful Details to Include (If Known)
- Alarm message text and cycle phase
- Scope type and channel configuration used
- Tubing condition (kinked, worn, intact)
- Filter condition
- Water supply status
- Drain performance
- Test results with known good scope
- Final device status
Final Thought
Flow-related alarms are often caused by simple external restrictions rather than internal failure. A structured approach—starting with connections, tubing, and supply—ensures safe and efficient troubleshooting. Always prioritize infection control and recognize when escalation is appropriate.
That is successful troubleshooting.