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What This Guide Helps With
This guide assists Clinical Engineering in troubleshooting printer or event recording failures on a LIFEPAK 20 / 20e defibrillator. Issues may include:
- No printout after a shock or ECG recording
- Incomplete or garbled event records
- Event data not stored or retrievable
The troubleshooting approach prioritizes external checks first before assuming internal failure or board-level issues.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Check Paper Supply
- Ensure the printer has paper installed correctly.
- Verify the paper type matches manufacturer specifications.
- A missing or incorrectly loaded paper roll is a common cause of printer failure.
Inspect Printer Door and Latch
- Ensure the printer door is fully closed and latched.
- Many devices prevent printing if the printer is not properly seated.
Check Printer Connections
- Verify the internal ribbon or cartridge (if present) is seated correctly.
- Inspect cables or connectors for damage or disconnection.
Power Cycle the Device
- Turn the defibrillator off, wait 10–15 seconds, and turn it back on.
- Power cycling can reset the printer interface and clear minor software glitches.
Verify Event Recording Settings
- Confirm that event recording is enabled in the device settings.
- Ensure proper ECG lead and pad connections, as missing input can prevent event capture.
Test Print Function
- Use the device’s built-in self-test or “print test” function.
- This isolates whether the issue is with the printer mechanism or with event recording itself.
Check for Obstructions or Damage
- Inspect the printer path for debris, torn paper, or jammed mechanisms.
- Look for visible damage to the printer gears or rollers.
If the Problem Persists
External and easily accessible issues have been ruled out. The device should be removed from service, labeled Out of Service, and sent to authorized repair or bench evaluation. Avoid further internal disassembly—this is proper escalation.
Clinical Use Tip
Never attempt to troubleshoot the printer while a patient is actively connected. Ensure event recording issues do not compromise documentation of patient care; use an alternate device if needed.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
“Device did not print ECG after shock delivery; event record missing.”
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
“Printer paper was depleted and printer door not fully latched. Event recording enabled but no printout generated due to lack of paper and improper seating.”
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
“Replaced printer paper, reseated printer door, ran print self-test successfully. Event recording verified functional.”
Helpful Details to Include
- Paper type and status
- Printer self-test result
- Any error messages or beeps
- Condition of printer ribbon/cartridge
- Device power cycle result
- Final event recording verification
Final Thought
Printer and event recording failures are often due to external issues such as paper supply, door latch, or settings. Logical troubleshooting protects patient safety, ensures accurate event documentation, and avoids unnecessary device disassembly. Properly escalating persistent failures ensures the device is repaired safely and reliably.
That is successful troubleshooting.