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Manufacturer
Model
What This Guide Helps With
Addresses failure to deliver a defibrillation shock, focusing on external connections, battery, pads, and device readiness.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Ensure Patient Safety
- Confirm the device is not in active use.
- If a patient requires resuscitation, use an alternate defibrillator immediately.
- Patient safety is the priority before any troubleshooting.
Check Battery Status
- Verify the battery is correctly seated and fully charged.
- Look for low battery or status indicator alerts.
- A weak or unrecognized battery can prevent shock delivery.
Inspect Pad Cartridge
- Ensure the pad cartridge is correctly inserted and fully seated.
- Check that the connectors are clean, dry, and undamaged.
- Pads not properly connected will interrupt shock circuit completion.
Examine Pad Placement and Leads
- Inspect cables and connectors for damage or wear.
- Ensure electrode pads themselves are within shelf life and not dried out.
- Damaged or expired pads can prevent effective defibrillation.
Confirm Device Readiness and Alerts
- Check for any error messages, status lights, or chirps indicating a device fault.
- Review the device self-test status if available.
- The HeartStart FRx will inhibit shocks if a critical error is detected.
Attempt a Device Test Shock (if safe and appropriate)
- Use the built-in test feature if available and no patient is attached.
- Confirm whether the device can charge and discharge without a load.
- If test shock succeeds, issue may be patient/pad interface or clinical setup.
If the Problem Persists
All external causes (battery, pads, connections, device readiness) have been checked.
The device should be:
- Removed from service
- Labeled Out of Service
- Sent for Philips service or bench evaluation
Recognizing when to escalate ensures safety and proper troubleshooting workflow.
Clinical Use Tip
- Never attempt troubleshooting on an active patient; always switch to a backup device.
- Only use test shock features when patient safety is ensured.
- Keep spare batteries and pad cartridges ready to minimize downtime.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
"Device failed to deliver shock during a clinical simulation."
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
"Pad cartridge improperly seated and battery slightly depleted."
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
"Re-seated pad cartridge, confirmed battery full, device test successful."
Helpful Details to Include (If Known)
- Battery voltage and insertion confirmation
- Pad cartridge inspection and expiration date
- Error messages displayed
- Device status lights and alarms
- Final test results
Final Thought
Patient safety and proper external checks are paramount. Logical, stepwise troubleshooting helps isolate the problem while avoiding unnecessary internal repairs. Proper documentation supports accountability and readiness.
That is successful troubleshooting.