On this page
Asset Type
Manufacturer
Model
What This Guide Helps With
This guide addresses the LOSS OF POWER alarm indicating insufficient AC and battery power, resulting in ventilator shutdown or inability to operate, placing the patient at risk of loss of ventilatory support.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Ensure Patient Safety First
- Immediately remove the ventilator from patient use if ventilation is interrupted
- Transfer the patient to a backup ventilator or provide manual ventilation (BVM)
- Confirm adequate ventilation is maintained
Verify the Reported Alarm and Behavior
- Power on the ventilator and confirm LOSS OF POWER alarm
- Observe for no power, rapid shutdown, or no system response
- Determine when the issue occurs (startup, during operation, or after unplugging AC)
Check AC Power Source (Most Common Cause)
- Plug ventilator into a known-good hospital-grade outlet
- Test outlet using another device
- Avoid power strips or extension cords
Inspect Power Cord and Connections
- Ensure power cord is fully seated at both ends
- Inspect cord for damage such as cuts or frays
- Replace with a known-good cord if needed
Verify Battery Condition
- Disconnect AC briefly and observe if unit stays powered
- Check for immediate shutdown or minimal runtime
- Confirm battery provides temporary backup power
Perform Power Reset
- Turn the ventilator OFF
- Ensure AC power is properly connected
- Turn the ventilator back ON
Isolate the Cause
- Outlet issue → facility power problem
- Power cord issue → accessory failure
- Battery failure → no backup during AC loss
- All external sources verified → internal power supply failure
If the Problem Persists
If the LOSS OF POWER alarm continues after verifying external power sources, cord integrity, and battery function, internal failure is likely.
- Remove device from service
- Label as Out of Service
- Send for repair or bench evaluation
Clinical Use Tip
Never troubleshoot a ventilator power issue while connected to a patient. Always transition the patient to a backup ventilation method first.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
"Ventilator displaying LOSS OF POWER alarm and not powering on during use."
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
"Battery failed to support unit and internal power system suspected after verifying AC source and cord were functional."
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
"Verified outlet and replaced power cord with no change. Removed unit from service and sent for repair."
Helpful Details to Include (If Known)
- Alarm behavior
- Accessories swapped
- Power behavior
- Environmental factors
- Indicator lights
- Final device status
Final Thought
Total power loss alarms must be treated as critical failures. Always verify external power sources first, but escalate quickly when both AC and battery backup fail.
That is successful troubleshooting.