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Asset Type
Manufacturer
Model
What This Guide Helps With
Power failures, unit not turning on, unexpected shutdowns, or battery-related issues affecting operation during stress testing.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Ensure Patient Safety First
- If the device is in use during a stress test, stop the test and transition to an alternate monitoring method.
- Expected: Patient monitoring continues safely
- Why it matters: Loss of BP monitoring during stress testing can compromise patient safety
Verify the Reported Issue
- Attempt to power on the unit. Observe:
- No power at all
- Intermittent shutdown
- Battery not charging
- Error messages related to power
- Expected: Issue is clearly reproducible
- Why it matters: Confirms whether this is a true power failure vs intermittent use issue
Check AC Power Source
- Plug the device into a known working outlet.
- Test outlet with another device
- Ensure hospital-grade outlet is functional
- Expected: Device receives stable AC power
- Why it matters: External power issues are a common and easily missed cause
Inspect Power Cord and Connections
- Check the AC power cord for:
- Damage or fraying
- Loose connection at device inlet
- Proper seating in outlet
- Reseat both ends securely.
- Expected: Secure, undamaged connection
- Why it matters: Loose or damaged cords can prevent power delivery
Observe Power Indicators
- With AC connected, check for:
- Power LED
- Charging indicator
- Screen response
- Expected: Indicators illuminate and system begins startup
- Why it matters: Helps determine if power is reaching the unit
Attempt Battery Operation (If Applicable)
- Disconnect AC power and attempt to power on using battery.
- Expected:
- Unit powers on (battery functional)
- Or fails (battery depleted or failed)
- Why it matters: Differentiates AC vs battery-related issue
Check Battery Charging Behavior
- Reconnect AC power and observe:
- Charging indicator present
- Battery level increasing (if displayed)
- Any battery-related alerts
- Expected: Battery charges normally
- Why it matters: Identifies charging circuit vs battery failure
Power Cycle the Device
- Disconnect AC power, remove battery (if accessible without disassembly), wait 30 seconds, then reconnect and power on.
- Expected: Device powers on normally
- Why it matters: Clears minor system or power control faults
Check for Overheating or Environmental Issues
- Inspect for:
- Excessive heat
- Blocked vents
- Use in non-recommended environment
- Expected: Normal operating temperature
- Why it matters: Thermal protection can prevent power-on or cause shutdowns
Test with Known Good Power Source or Cord (If Available)
- Swap with a known good compatible cord or outlet.
- Expected: Device powers normally if original source was faulty
- Why it matters: Confirms external accessory failure vs device issue
If the Problem Persists
If all external power sources, cords, and battery behaviors have been verified, the issue is likely internal (power supply, charging circuit, or battery failure).
Remove the device from service, label it Out of Service, and send for repair or bench evaluation.
Knowing when to stop prevents unnecessary risk and ensures proper escalation.
Clinical Use Tip
Do not troubleshoot power issues during an active stress test. Always stabilize the patient and transition monitoring before removing the device from service.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
"Tango+ monitor would not power on and failed during stress test setup."
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
"Failed internal battery not accepting charge despite verified AC power."
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
"Removed from service and sent for repair; battery replacement required."
Helpful Details to Include (If Known)
- Outlet tested and verified
- Power cord condition checked
- Battery charge status observed
- Indicator lights behavior
- Any shutdown timing or patterns
- Presence of heat or unusual smell
- Final device status (removed from service)
Final Thought
Power-related issues should always be approached from the outside in—verify power sources, cords, and battery behavior before suspecting internal failure. Patient safety comes first, especially in stress testing environments. Proper escalation and clear documentation ensure efficient repair and reliable future use.
That is successful troubleshooting.