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Asset Type
Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy (CRRT)
Manufacturer
Model
What This Guide Helps With
Helps troubleshoot fluid scale errors caused by bag placement, connections, environmental interference, or external setup.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
1. Confirm patient safety
Ensure treatment status is understood and clinical staff are involved before troubleshooting. Expected outcome: Patient care remains protected.
2. Confirm the reported scale error
Verify the exact alarm and determine which fluid scale is affected. Expected outcome: Correct alarm condition is identified.
3. Inspect fluid bag placement
Verify the fluid container is properly positioned and not contacting other equipment or surfaces. Expected outcome: Bag placement is correct.
4. Inspect tubing and connections
Check visible tubing for restrictions, tension, or improper routing. Expected outcome: External tubing issues are corrected.
5. Check the surrounding environment
Verify nothing is interfering with the scale area or fluid bag movement. Expected outcome: Scale area is unobstructed.
6. Perform final verification
Confirm the fluid scale operates normally after corrections. Expected outcome: Scale error is resolved and troubleshooting can stop.
If the Problem Persists
External causes have been ruled out. The device should be:
- Removed from service
- Labeled Out of Service
- Sent for repair or bench evaluation
- Evaluated using approved documentation and test equipment
- Repaired only by qualified personnel
Possible causes may involve internal scale sensing or control systems.
Clinical Use Tip
Verify replacement therapy continuity before removing a CRRT device from patient care.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
"Clinical staff reported a dialysate scale error during PrisMax operation."
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
"Clinical Engineering found the fluid container position was affecting external scale movement."
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
"Clinical Engineering corrected the setup, verified proper operation, and returned the device to service."
Helpful Details to Include (If Known)
- Alarm message
- Affected scale
- Bag position
- Tubing condition
- Environmental inspection
- Final verification
Final Thought
Logical troubleshooting starts with external causes, confirms operation, and escalates appropriately when internal evaluation is needed. Good documentation supports safe CRRT service. That is successful troubleshooting.