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Manufacturer
Model
What This Guide Helps With
Identifies causes of failed pre-use checks or leak tests, including loose connections, absorber issues, vaporizers, or breathing circuit leaks.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Ensure Patient Safety First
- Confirm the machine is not in use.
- If needed, move the patient to another anesthesia machine before troubleshooting.
Review Error Message or Failure Step
- Note exactly where the pre-use check fails (e.g., leak test, compliance test, flow sensor check).
- This narrows troubleshooting to a specific subsystem.
Check Breathing Circuit Assembly
- Verify all hoses, connectors, and Y-piece are fully seated and not cracked or damaged.
- Loose or worn connections are a common cause of leaks.
- If corrected and test passes, stop here.
Inspect CO₂ Absorber Canister
- Ensure the absorber is properly installed, locked, and the gasket/O-ring is intact.
- Improper seating is a frequent leak source.
- If reseating resolves the issue, stop here.
Check Vaporizers
- Confirm vaporizers are fully seated, locked, and not in between positions.
- Ensure filler caps are tight and no agent leaks are present.
- If corrected and test passes, stop here.
Verify APL Valve and Bag/Manual Mode Components
- Ensure the APL valve is not fully open during leak testing (follow system prompts).
- Check reservoir bag for tears or improper attachment.
- If corrected and test passes, stop here.
Inspect Auxiliary Ports and Unused Connections
- Ensure all auxiliary gas outlets, ports, and sampling lines are capped or properly connected.
- Open ports will cause leak test failure.
- If corrected and test passes, stop here.
Check Flow Sensors and Water Traps
- Ensure flow sensors are installed correctly and water traps are seated with no cracks.
- Moisture or misalignment can affect test results.
- If corrected and test passes, stop here.
Perform a Visual and Audible Leak Check
- Manually pressurize the circuit (if appropriate) and listen for escaping gas.
- Feel around connections for airflow.
- This helps identify external leaks not obvious visually.
Restart System and Repeat Pre-Use Check
- Power cycle the unit to clear temporary faults and rerun the automated test.
- Software or sensor initialization issues may resolve.
If the Problem Persists
If all external components and connections have been verified, the issue is likely internal (e.g., internal valves, sensors, or pneumatic system).
Remove the machine from service, label it Out of Service, and send for repair or further bench evaluation.
Knowing when to stop prevents unnecessary risk and reflects proper troubleshooting practice.
Clinical Use Tip
Never attempt to bypass or ignore a failed pre-use or leak test. Always move the patient to a verified, functional anesthesia machine before proceeding.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
"Anesthesia machine failed pre-use leak test during morning setup."
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
"CO₂ absorber canister not fully seated, causing system leak."
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
"Reseated absorber canister and verified seal; pre-use check passed successfully."
Helpful Details to Include (If Known)
- Leak test failure step (which portion failed)
- Circuit and absorber condition
- Vaporizer seating and status
- APL valve position during test
- Any audible leak detected
- Indicator messages or alarms
- Final device status (passed/failed after correction)
Final Thought
Pre-use check failures are most often caused by simple external issues. A structured approach—starting with connections and moving inward—protects patient safety and prevents unnecessary escalation. Proper documentation ensures repeat issues can be tracked and resolved efficiently.
That is successful troubleshooting.