On this page
Asset Type
Manufacturer
Model
What This Guide Helps With
Incorrect time, failed BP schedules, missed readings, or improper interval timing caused by clock settings, configuration, or battery-related issues.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Ensure Patient Safety First
- If the monitor is actively being used for a study, assess whether incorrect timing affects clinical accuracy.
- Transition to another unit if needed.
Expected: Patient study integrity is maintained.
Why it matters: Incorrect timestamps can invalidate ambulatory BP data.
Verify the Reported Issue
- Check current displayed date/time
- Compare with known correct time (phone, workstation)
- Review programmed BP schedule intervals
Expected: Clear identification of whether this is a clock drift, reset, or scheduling configuration issue.
Why it matters: Helps separate user setup error from device malfunction.
Check Time and Date Settings
- Confirm correct date, time, and AM/PM settings
- Verify correct time zone if applicable
- Adjust manually if incorrect
Expected: Time updates correctly and holds after exiting menu.
Why it matters: Incorrect manual entry is a common cause of scheduling errors.
Verify BP Scheduling Configuration
- Check daytime and nighttime intervals
- Confirm start and stop times for monitoring period
- Ensure schedule aligns with intended study duration
Expected: Properly configured intervals and schedule.
Why it matters: Misconfigured schedules can appear as missed or irregular readings.
Power Cycle the Device
- Turn device off
- Remove and reinsert batteries
- Power back on and recheck time
Expected: Device boots with correct time retained.
Why it matters: Temporary glitches can affect internal clock behavior.
Inspect Battery Condition
- Replace with fresh, approved batteries
- Observe if time resets after battery removal
Expected: Time remains accurate with stable power.
Why it matters: Internal clock relies on consistent power; weak batteries can cause resets or drift.
Check for Time Reset After Power Loss
- Remove batteries briefly
- Reinsert and power on
- Check if time reverted to default
Expected: Time should retain or minimally drift.
Why it matters: Loss of time memory suggests internal backup battery or clock circuit issue.
Test Scheduling Function
- Program a short interval (e.g., every 5 minutes)
- Observe if readings occur at correct times
Expected: Readings occur at proper intervals.
Why it matters: Confirms whether scheduling logic is functioning correctly.
If the Problem Persists
If time continues to reset, drift significantly, or scheduling fails after all external checks, internal clock or memory components are likely failing.
Remove the device from service, label it Out of Service, and send for repair or bench evaluation. Knowing when to stop prevents unreliable patient data collection.
Clinical Use Tip
Do not begin or continue an ambulatory BP study if the device time is incorrect. Always verify clock accuracy before placing on a patient.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
"Staff reported incorrect timestamps and missed BP readings during ambulatory study."
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
"Device clock reset after battery removal, indicating internal timekeeping failure."
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
"Replaced batteries and tested; issue persisted. Unit removed from service and sent for repair."
Helpful Details to Include (If Known)
- Time compared to known reference
- Schedule configuration verified
- Batteries replaced/tested
- Time retention after power loss checked
- Test schedule results
- Final device status (in service vs out of service)
Final Thought
Accurate timing is critical for ambulatory monitoring. Always rule out configuration and power-related causes first, but recognize when internal clock failure compromises data integrity. Proper escalation and documentation ensure reliable patient diagnostics.
That is successful troubleshooting.