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Manufacturer
Model
What This Guide Helps With
Loss of network connection to central station, missing patient data, or monitor not appearing on central monitoring system.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Ensure Patient Safety First
- Confirm the patient is still being monitored locally at the bedside.
- If central monitoring is required, move the patient to a functioning monitored bed before proceeding.
- Expected: Patient remains safely monitored.
- Why it matters: Network loss does not stop local monitoring but removes remote visibility.
Verify the Reported Issue
- Check the monitor display for:
- Network disconnect icon or message
- Missing central station connection
- Time synchronization issues
- Confirm with staff:
- When the issue started
- Whether other monitors are affected
- Expected: Issue is confirmed and reproducible.
- Why it matters: Determines if the problem is device-specific or network-wide.
Check Network Cable Connection (Wired Systems)
- Inspect the Ethernet cable:
- Ensure it is fully seated in the monitor
- Ensure it is fully seated in the wall/data port
- Gently reseat both ends.
- Expected: Connection restores or link lights activate.
- Why it matters: Loose or partially connected cables are a common cause.
Check Network Port / Wall Jack
- Move the network cable to a known working wall port if available.
- If possible, test the suspect port with another working monitor.
- Expected: Device connects on a known good port.
- Why it matters: Rules out infrastructure issues outside the device.
Inspect Link/Activity Indicators
- Check for link lights at the Ethernet port:
- Solid/green = link established
- Blinking = activity
- No light = no connection
- Expected: Active link lights present.
- Why it matters: Confirms physical network connectivity at the hardware level.
Verify Network Settings on Monitor
- Access system/network settings:
- Confirm correct IP configuration (DHCP vs static)
- Verify subnet, gateway, and VLAN (if applicable)
- Ensure central station server address is correct
- Expected: Settings match facility network configuration.
- Why it matters: Incorrect settings prevent communication even with a good cable.
Restart the Monitor (If Safe to Do So)
- Power cycle the monitor after confirming patient safety.
- Observe reconnection during startup.
- Expected: Monitor reconnects to network and central station.
- Why it matters: Clears temporary communication faults.
Check Central Station / Network Status
- Verify if:
- Other monitors are offline
- Central station is operational
- IT/network outages are reported
- Expected: Other devices are functioning normally.
- Why it matters: Identifies broader system or server-side issues.
Swap Known Good Cable
- Replace the Ethernet cable with a known working cable.
- Expected: Connection restores if cable was faulty.
- Why it matters: Cable failures can be intermittent and not visibly damaged.
Test with Another Monitor (If Available)
- Connect a known working monitor to the same drop.
- Expected: Determines if issue follows the device or the location.
- Why it matters: Helps isolate device vs infrastructure.
If the Problem Persists
If all external connections, settings, and network checks have been verified, the issue is likely internal (network interface hardware or software fault).
Remove the device from service, label it Out of Service, and send for repair or further bench evaluation.
Clinical Use Tip
Do not rely on central station monitoring during troubleshooting. Always ensure the patient has continuous bedside monitoring or is moved to a fully functional monitored environment.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
"Monitor not connecting to central station; patient not visible remotely."
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
"Faulty Ethernet cable preventing network communication."
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
"Replaced Ethernet cable and verified successful reconnection to central station."
Helpful Details to Include (If Known)
- Alarm behavior
- Accessories swapped
- Power behavior
- Environmental factors
- Indicator lights
- Final device status
Final Thought
Network issues should always be approached from the outside in—starting with cables, ports, and infrastructure before assuming device failure. Patient safety depends on continuous monitoring, so escalation and proper documentation are critical when connectivity cannot be restored.
That is successful troubleshooting.