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Model
What This Guide Helps With
Stretcher backrest or Trendelenburg function not moving, stuck, or slow due to mechanical, hydraulic, or control-related external issues.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Ensure Patient Safety First
- Remove the stretcher from patient use if positioning cannot be adjusted safely.
- Transfer the patient to another stretcher if needed.
Why it matters: Positioning functions are critical for patient care and safety.
Verify the Reported Issue
- Attempt to adjust both the backrest and Trendelenburg using normal controls (manual lever or pedal depending on configuration).
- Does nothing move?
- Only one function affected?
- Movement slow or jerky?
Expected: Identify if issue is isolated or system-wide.
Why it matters: Helps determine mechanical vs hydraulic vs control issue.
Check for Mechanical Obstruction
- Inspect under the stretcher and around the backrest hinge and frame:
- Linens caught in joints
- Debris in linkage points
- Bent components or misalignment
Expected: No obstruction present.
Why it matters: Even small obstructions can prevent movement.
Verify Control Lever/Pedal Operation
- Operate the Trendelenburg/backrest control levers or pedals:
- Ensure full range of motion
- Check for loose, broken, or disconnected linkage
Expected: Lever/pedal moves freely and returns to neutral.
Why it matters: Mechanical linkage failure is a common cause.
Check Hydraulic System Response
- While activating the control:
- Listen for hydraulic movement (fluid shifting sound)
- Observe if there is any slight movement or resistance
Expected: Smooth movement when control is engaged.
Why it matters: No response may indicate hydraulic failure or low fluid.
Inspect for Hydraulic Leaks
- Check around hydraulic cylinders, hoses, and pump assembly:
- Oil residue or wetness
- Drips under stretcher
- Low or empty reservoir (if visible externally)
Expected: No visible leaks.
Why it matters: Loss of hydraulic fluid prevents proper positioning.
Check Load and Weight Distribution
- Ensure stretcher is not overloaded or unevenly loaded:
- Remove excess equipment or weight
- Reattempt adjustment
Expected: Movement improves if overload was the issue.
Why it matters: Excess weight can prevent hydraulic actuation.
Cycle the Function Multiple Times
- Attempt repeated full-range adjustments:
- Raise/lower backrest fully
- Engage Trendelenburg several times
Expected: Movement may restore if system was stiff or not used frequently.
Why it matters: Helps free minor internal sticking.
Compare with a Known Working Unit (If Available)
- Operate another 6090/6500 stretcher for comparison.
Expected: Identify abnormal resistance or behavior.
Why it matters: Confirms whether issue is truly abnormal.
If the Problem Persists
If all external checks, controls, and obstructions have been ruled out, the issue is likely internal to the hydraulic system or mechanical linkage.
- Remove stretcher from service
- Label Out of Service
- Send for repair or bench evaluation
Knowing when to stop prevents unnecessary risk and reflects proper troubleshooting.
Clinical Use Tip
Never attempt to troubleshoot positioning functions while a patient is on the stretcher. Always transfer the patient first to avoid injury.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
"Stretcher backrest and Trendelenburg functions not adjusting per clinical staff report."
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
"Hydraulic system not responding; no external obstruction found during inspection."
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
"Removed from service and sent for hydraulic system repair and evaluation."
Helpful Details to Include (If Known)
- Control levers/pedals tested
- Obstruction check completed
- Hydraulic leak inspection performed
- Movement behavior (none, slow, jerky)
- Comparison with known working unit
- Final device status (removed from service)
Final Thought
Positioning failures on stretchers should always be approached methodically—starting with simple mechanical checks before assuming hydraulic failure. Patient safety and proper escalation are key, and clear documentation ensures efficient repair follow-up.
That is successful troubleshooting.