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What This Guide Helps With
This guide assists Clinical Engineering in troubleshooting display or keypad/button failures on the Nellcor PM100N. Such failures prevent user input, alarm acknowledgment, or viewing readings. Most issues are caused by external factors such as power, connector issues, or minor contamination before assuming internal electronic failure.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Ensure the device is powered and charging properly
- Check that the battery is sufficiently charged or connected to AC power.
- Verify that the charger and cable are functioning.
- Reason: A dead or low battery can cause the display to not illuminate or buttons to be unresponsive.
Inspect for obvious damage or contamination
- Check the keypad, buttons, and display for visible damage, debris, or moisture.
- Clean with manufacturer-approved wipes.
- Reason: Dirt or liquid can block button contact or interfere with touchscreen responsiveness.
Perform a soft reset
- Power cycle the device using the on/off button or battery removal if needed.
- Reason: Temporary software glitches can cause unresponsive displays or buttons.
Verify cable and sensor connections
- Disconnect and reconnect SpO₂ sensors and any accessory cables.
- Reason: Some devices disable the display or keypad if sensors are improperly connected or malfunctioning.
Check for error messages or indicators
- Observe any LED or audible indicators that may signal device faults.
- Reason: Certain internal faults are flagged by lights or alarms, providing clues for further action.
Test keypad/buttons systematically
- Press each button individually, noting which are unresponsive.
- If touchscreen, gently swipe across the entire screen.
- Reason: Isolating the failure helps determine if it is localized or device-wide.
If the Problem Persists
External causes have been ruled out; the device likely has internal electronic failure.
- Remove the device from service.
- Label “Out of Service.”
- Send for repair or bench evaluation.
- Reason: Attempting internal repair without proper tools risks further damage and patient safety.
Clinical Use Tip
- Never troubleshoot the device on an active patient.
- Move the patient to another pulse oximeter to maintain monitoring.
- Only perform troubleshooting in a safe environment.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
“User reports display is blank and keypad unresponsive.”
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
“Device was connected to AC power, no visible damage, buttons cleaned, soft reset attempted; still unresponsive.”
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
“Device removed from service, labeled Out of Service, sent to repair.”
Helpful Details to Include
- Battery charge level
- AC power verification
- Any visible contamination or damage
- Specific buttons or areas of touchscreen unresponsive
- Device status LEDs or alarm behavior
Final Thought
Patient safety is the top priority. Troubleshooting should always start with external, easily verifiable factors. Know when to escalate to repair. Proper documentation supports future service and prevents repeated issues.
That is successful troubleshooting.