On this page
Asset Type
Manufacturer
Model
What This Guide Helps With
This guide assists Clinical Engineering in troubleshooting power or battery failures on a ResMed Astral ventilator. Symptoms may include the device not turning on, battery not charging, rapid battery drain, or the ventilator shutting down unexpectedly. The focus is on external, verifiable checks before escalating to internal repair or replacement.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Verify AC Power Connection
- Ensure the ventilator is properly plugged into a live, grounded outlet.
- Check for any visible damage to the AC power cord.
- Confirm the outlet is working by testing another device.
Why: A faulty outlet or loose connection is a common cause of power failure.
Check Battery Installation
- Ensure the battery is fully seated in its compartment.
- Look for corrosion, debris, or damage on the battery contacts.
Why: Poor battery contact can prevent charging or power delivery.
Test with a Known Good Battery
- Swap in a verified working battery if available.
- Confirm if the device powers on or charges normally.
Why: This isolates whether the battery itself is the issue.
Inspect Battery Charging
- Confirm the device indicates charging when plugged in.
- Allow several minutes to see if charging indicators respond.
Why: Charging failure may suggest battery end-of-life or power supply issues.
Check Device Settings and Logs
- Review any error messages displayed on the ventilator.
- Record any battery or power-related alarms.
Why: Device logs may indicate if the issue is hardware or software related.
Verify DC Power (if applicable)
- If using an external DC source (e.g., vehicle power), ensure voltage matches specifications.
- Inspect cables and connectors for damage.
Why: Incorrect voltage or damaged cables can prevent proper operation.
If the Problem Persists
All external checks have been ruled out. The issue is likely internal (battery pack failure, internal power supply fault).
Action:
- Remove the device from service.
- Label “Out of Service.”
- Send for repair or bench evaluation.
Reminder: Stopping before internal disassembly ensures patient safety and preserves warranty.
Clinical Use Tip
- Never troubleshoot power issues while the patient is on the ventilator.
- Move the patient to a backup ventilator or manual ventilation first.
- Only perform checks when patient safety is secured.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
“Ventilator will not turn on; battery not charging.”
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
“Battery contacts clean but device fails to power on with known good battery; AC power verified functional.”
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
“Device removed from service, labeled Out of Service, sent to vendor for repair.”
Helpful Details to Include
- AC outlet tested and confirmed.
- Battery swapped and tested.
- Charging indicator behavior noted.
- Error messages or alarms recorded.
- Device condition: external casing intact, no visible damage.
Final Thought
Troubleshooting power or battery failures on ventilators requires a logical, stepwise approach. Always prioritize patient safety, escalate appropriately when internal issues are suspected, and document all actions thoroughly to support service and compliance. Proper documentation also supports cost avoidance by distinguishing simple user issues from true device faults.
That is successful troubleshooting.