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What This Guide Helps With
This guide addresses situations where the Stryker InTouch bed’s integrated scale reports inconsistent or drifting weights over time. Symptoms may include:
- Weight readings that gradually change without patient movement
- Sudden jumps or drops in weight readings
- Inability to perform accurate weight-dependent functions
Focus is on verifying external factors and proper setup before assuming internal sensor failure.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Verify Bed is on a Stable Surface
- Ensure the bed is on a level, hard floor. Uneven flooring or caster locks not engaged can affect scale readings.
- Why: Tilt or uneven load distribution can cause calibration drift.
Check Caster Locks and Bed Frame Integrity
- Lock all casters and inspect for bent or loose frame components.
- Why: Bed frame flex or movement can change the sensor load distribution.
Remove All External Loads
- Ensure the bed is empty of additional items (IV pumps, linens, equipment).
- Why: Extra weight can skew calibration.
Verify Power Source and Connections
- Confirm bed is connected to proper power or fully charged battery.
- Check for loose power connectors if using a wired scale module.
- Why: Voltage fluctuations or intermittent power can cause erroneous readings.
Perform Manufacturer-Recommended Scale Calibration
- Follow Stryker’s calibration procedure for the InTouch scale.
- If the procedure fails or drift occurs immediately after calibration, note error codes.
Observe for Environmental Interference
- Ensure no strong magnets, heavy electrical equipment, or vibration sources are nearby.
- Why: Sensitive load cells can be influenced by electromagnetic interference.
If the Problem Persists
External causes are ruled out; the scale module or load cells may be faulty.
- Remove bed from service
- Label as Out of Service
- Send for Stryker service or bench evaluation
Stopping before internal disassembly ensures patient safety and preserves warranty.
Clinical Use Tip
Do not rely on the bed’s scale for patient weight if readings are inconsistent.
Move patients to another calibrated scale or bed for weight-dependent medication or fluid calculations until resolved.
Always verify scale readings before use in critical care decisions.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
Bed scale drifting, inaccurate weight readings.
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
Calibration drift persists despite empty bed, level floor, and correct power.
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
Performed calibration attempt; bed removed from service; sent to Stryker for evaluation.
Helpful Details to Include
- Floor type and leveling
- Caster lock status
- Bed load during calibration
- Voltage or battery status
- Error codes during calibration
- Last calibration date
- Any unusual sounds or movement during weighing
Final Thought
Patient safety and accurate weight measurement are paramount. Troubleshooting should proceed from simple environmental and setup factors to proper calibration checks before considering hardware replacement. Proper documentation ensures continuity and helps Stryker service staff quickly identify and correct the issue.
That is successful troubleshooting.