On this page
Asset Type
Manufacturer
Model
What This Guide Helps With
Identifies causes of non-responsive hand or foot controls, including wiring, connection, battery, and obstruction issues before assuming internal control failure.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Ensure Patient Safety
Confirm the table is not in use with a patient. If in use, safely transfer the patient to another table. Troubleshooting must never endanger a patient.
Inspect Control Connection
Verify that hand and foot controls are fully connected to their respective ports. Look for loose plugs, bent pins, or debris. Proper connection ensures signals are received by the table.
Check for Physical Damage
Examine cables and control surfaces for cuts, fraying, cracks, or worn buttons. Damaged controls can fail to transmit commands correctly.
Test Alternate Control
If available, try a known working hand or foot control. If it works, the original control is likely defective.
Verify Power and Table Status
Ensure the table is powered on and all indicator lights show normal operation. Some tables disable controls when in standby or fault conditions.
Check Control Pairing (If Wireless/IR)
For tables with IR or wireless hand controls, ensure pairing is correct. Re-pair controls according to manufacturer procedure if necessary.
Observe Table Response
Press each control function sequentially. Confirm movement or indicators respond. Record any functions that do not respond for documentation.
If the Problem Persists
All external causes have been ruled out.
Remove the table from service.
Label the table as Out of Service.
Send for repair or bench evaluation. Knowing when to stop prevents unsafe troubleshooting attempts.
Clinical Use Tip
Never troubleshoot controls while a patient is on the table.
Always move the patient to a functioning table first.
Confirm the OR team is aware of the table status.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
"OR staff reported hand and foot controls unresponsive on Stryker 8800 table."
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
"Loose hand control connection and partially worn foot control cable detected."
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
"Reconnected hand control, replaced foot control cable; table tested and fully operational."
Helpful Details to Include
- Outlet tested and confirmed live
- Alternate control tested
- Indicator lights normal
- Table movement functions verified
- Control cables inspected for wear
Final Thought
Patient safety comes first. Troubleshoot logically from simple to complex, documenting all findings. External issues often resolve most control failures, and proper escalation ensures safe operation.
That is successful troubleshooting.