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Asset Type
Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy (CRRT)
Manufacturer
Model
What This Guide Helps With
Helps troubleshoot fluid balance alarms related to bags, scales, positioning, connections, or external setup.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
1. Protect patient safety and treatment continuity
Confirm clinical staff are aware of the alarm and that patient therapy is appropriately managed before troubleshooting. Expected outcome: Patient safety is maintained.
2. Confirm the alarm condition
Verify the exact alarm message and identify whether it involves a fluid bag, balance system, or treatment interruption. Expected outcome: The condition is clearly identified.
3. Inspect fluid bags and scale loading
Verify fluid bags are properly positioned, supported, and connected. Check for external interference affecting hanging or weighing conditions. Expected outcome: Fluid bags are correctly positioned.
4. Inspect external tubing and connections
Check visible tubing for kinks, restrictions, loose connections, or improper routing. Expected outcome: Tubing path is clear and connections are secure.
5. Verify scale area is unobstructed
Inspect the external scale areas for contact with surrounding objects, equipment, or surfaces that could affect movement or measurement. Expected outcome: Scale areas are free from external interference.
6. Perform final functional verification
Verify the device resumes normal operation without recurring fluid balance alarms. Expected outcome: Fluid balance operation is restored and troubleshooting can stop.
If the Problem Persists
External causes have been ruled out. The device should be:
- Removed from service if safe operation cannot be maintained
- Labeled Out of Service
- Sent for repair or bench evaluation
- Evaluated using appropriate manufacturer documentation and approved test equipment
- Repaired or configured only by qualified personnel
Possible causes may involve internal scale, sensing, or control functions.
Clinical Use Tip
Maintain therapy continuity by coordinating alternate CRRT support if the device cannot continue safely.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
"Clinical staff reported a fluid balance alarm on the Vantive PrisMax during treatment."
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
"Clinical Engineering found the fluid bag was contacting surrounding equipment and affecting scale movement."
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
"Clinical Engineering corrected the setup condition and verified normal fluid balance operation."
Helpful Details to Include (If Known)
- Alarm message
- Fluid bag condition
- Scale area inspection
- Tubing condition
- External obstructions
- Final operational verification
Final Thought
CRRT troubleshooting should begin with patient safety and simple external checks before escalation. Proper verification and documentation ensure safe equipment operation. That is successful troubleshooting.