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What This Guide Helps With
This guide assists Clinical Engineering in troubleshooting paper recorder issues on the Avalon FM30, including no printout, faint or incomplete traces, paper feed problems, or misaligned printing. Most issues are caused by external factors such as paper loading, supply type, or recorder settings rather than internal failure.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Verify the Monitor Has Power and Is Fully Booted
- Ensure the device is powered on and not in standby. Printing will not occur if the monitor is not actively monitoring or recording.
Confirm Recorder Is Enabled
- Check that the recorder function is turned on and that recording has been initiated (manual or automatic).
- Some units require pressing a “Start/Stop Recording” button.
Check Paper Supply
- Open the recorder door and verify:
- Paper is present
- Paper is not empty or near end
- Paper is properly seated in the tray
Verify Correct Paper Type and Orientation
- Ensure the correct thermal paper is being used and loaded in the proper direction.
- Incorrect orientation will result in blank printouts
- Paper should feed from the bottom and print side should face the print head
Inspect Paper Path for Obstructions
- Look for:
- Torn paper fragments
- Debris or foreign objects
- Misaligned paper rolls
- Clear any obstructions and reload paper cleanly
Check Recorder Door Closure
- Ensure the recorder door is fully closed and latched.
- A partially open door will prevent printing
Assess Print Quality (Faint or Missing Lines)
- If printing is faint or incomplete:
- Try a new roll of paper
- Ensure paper is not expired or heat-damaged
- Check for consistent pressure along the paper path
Perform a Test Print
- Initiate a test strip or recording:
- Observe if paper feeds correctly
- Check for consistent tracing output
- This helps determine if the issue is continuous or intermittent
Check for Error Messages or Indicators
- Review the display for recorder-related alerts such as:
- “Out of paper”
- “Recorder error”
- “Door open”
- Address any indicated issues accordingly
Inspect for Mechanical Issues
- Listen for abnormal sounds during printing:
- Grinding or slipping may indicate a worn feed mechanism
- No movement may indicate motor or drive failure
If the Problem Persists
If all external causes (paper, loading, settings, and obstructions) have been ruled out, the issue is likely internal to the recorder assembly (print head, motor, or control circuitry).
At this point:
- Remove the device from service
- Label it Out of Service
- Send for repair or perform bench evaluation
Recognizing when the issue is no longer external is a key part of effective troubleshooting.
Clinical Use Tip
- Do not attempt to troubleshoot printing issues while the monitor is in active use on a patient.
- Move the patient to another monitor to ensure continuous fetal monitoring and proper documentation before beginning troubleshooting.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
“Monitor not printing fetal strip” or “Printout is blank/faint during monitoring.”
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
Paper loaded incorrectly (wrong orientation) preventing thermal printing.
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
Reloaded paper correctly and verified proper printout with test strip.
Helpful Details to Include
- Paper supply checked and replaced
- Paper orientation verified
- Recorder door fully closed
- Test print performed
- Alarm or error messages observed
- Paper path cleared of debris
- Print quality before/after intervention
- Final device status (operational or removed from service)
Final Thought
Paper recorder issues are often simple but can significantly impact clinical documentation. A structured approach—starting with paper supply and setup—resolves most problems quickly. When mechanical failure is suspected, removing the device from service protects both patient safety and workflow efficiency. Clear documentation ensures continuity and accountability.
That is successful troubleshooting.