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What This Guide Helps With
This guide addresses situations where the Stryker InTouch bed’s control panel fails to respond to user inputs. Symptoms may include:
- Buttons or touchscreen unresponsive
- Bed does not adjust position via control panel
- Alarms or notifications not acknowledged
- Other functions controlled through the panel fail
Focus is on external and easily verifiable causes before assuming internal electronics failure.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Verify Bed Power
- Check that the bed is plugged in or battery is charged.
- Ensure outlet is live (use a known working device).
- Why: Control panel will not respond if the bed has no power.
Check Main Disconnect / Battery Switch
- Locate the bed’s main power switch or battery disconnect.
- Cycle it off for 10 seconds and back on.
- Why: Resets control electronics and may clear temporary faults.
Inspect Cables and Connectors
- Check ribbon cables, plugs, and connectors from the control panel to the main electronics.
- Look for loose, bent, or damaged connectors.
- Why: Loose connections can prevent the panel from responding.
Check for Physical Damage
- Inspect the control panel for cracks, liquid spills, or visible damage.
- Clean any dirt or residue gently with a damp cloth.
- Why: Contamination or damage can interfere with button/touch functions.
Test Other Control Inputs
- Try the side rail control or nurse control (if applicable).
- Confirm if they respond.
- Why: Helps determine if the problem is isolated to one panel or bed electronics.
Cycle Power Again if Needed
- After inspection, power cycle the bed again to see if responsiveness returns.
If the Problem Persists
External causes have been ruled out. The control panel or main electronics may be internally faulty.
- Remove the bed from service.
- Label it Out of Service.
- Send for bench evaluation or manufacturer repair.
Knowing when to stop and escalate is proper troubleshooting.
Clinical Use Tip
Do not attempt adjustments or troubleshooting while a patient is on the bed. Move the patient to another bed before further evaluation. Only operate controls when safe.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
“Control panel unresponsive; bed will not adjust height or position.”
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
Bed has power, but panel does not respond to any inputs. External connections and other controls verified functional.
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
Bed removed from service, labeled Out of Service, sent for repair/bench evaluation.
Helpful Details to Include
- Outlet tested
- Battery status verified
- Alternate control inputs tested
- Any visible panel damage or contamination noted
- Bed status at time of removal
Final Thought
Proper troubleshooting prioritizes patient safety, confirms external causes first, and avoids unnecessary internal repair attempts. Documentation ensures a clear history for repair and risk mitigation.
That is successful troubleshooting.