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Manufacturer
Model
What This Guide Helps With
Addresses charging failure or reduced runtime caused by AC power, adapter, dock, connection, battery age, storage, or internal charging faults.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
1. Protect the Patient and Maintain a Powered Backup
Do not rely on a GlideScope system with an uncertain battery during airway care. Use another verified device or operate from an approved reliable AC source only when the configuration permits and cable placement is safe.
Remove the unit from clinical availability if it shuts down unexpectedly or cannot maintain power.
Expected outcome: Patient care is not dependent on an unreliable battery.
2. Confirm the Reported Battery Condition
Ask whether the battery does not charge, charges slowly, shows a full indication but runs briefly, or causes unexpected shutdown. Record whether the issue occurs on the monitor, portable unit, handle, or another battery-powered component within the specific GlideScope configuration.
Reproduce the complaint after a documented charging attempt.
Expected outcome: The affected battery-powered component and exact symptom are identified.
3. Verify the AC Source
Test the wall outlet with an approved outlet tester or a known-good device according to facility policy. Confirm any switched receptacle is on and the plug is fully inserted.
Do not use damaged extension cords or unapproved power strips.
Expected outcome: A verified AC source is available. If charging begins on a known-good outlet, the original power source is referred for correction.
4. Inspect the Approved Power Adapter and Cord
Check the adapter, cord, plug, and strain reliefs for cuts, loose sections, bent contacts, overheating, discoloration, or incorrect labeling. Confirm the adapter is the approved type for the device.
Expected outcome: The power adapter and cord are correct and undamaged. Any unsafe adapter is removed from service.
5. Verify Charging Connection or Docking
Ensure the charging plug is fully seated or the device is correctly positioned in its charging dock. Inspect contacts for debris, moisture, corrosion, or physical damage.
Clean external contacts only through approved methods and allow them to dry fully.
Expected outcome: The device makes a secure charging connection and displays the expected charging indication. If charging resumes normally, continue to runtime verification.
6. Observe Charge Indicators
Record the charging icon, indicator light, battery level, or any displayed message before and after connecting AC power. Allow sufficient observation time to determine whether the state changes.
Do not invent charging limits or expected duration; use the applicable manufacturer documentation.
Expected outcome: The device recognizes external power and shows an increasing charge state.
7. Perform a Controlled Runtime Check
After charging according to approved instructions, operate the system in a nonclinical test condition. Observe whether the battery level declines unusually quickly or the unit shuts down.
Do not intentionally deplete the battery if this conflicts with facility policy or manufacturer guidance.
Expected outcome: The system remains powered for an acceptable service period based on manufacturer guidance and facility expectations.
8. Test With a Known-Good Approved Power Accessory
Substitute a known-good approved power adapter, cable, or charging dock one item at a time.
Expected outcome: Charging with the known-good accessory identifies the original external power accessory as defective.
9. Evaluate Battery Condition Within Authorized Limits
Review the device age, battery replacement history, storage condition, and prior runtime complaints. Inspect for swelling, leakage, heat, odor, or enclosure distortion.
Do not open a sealed battery or replace it unless the procedure is authorized and within the technician’s scope.
Expected outcome: A battery showing damage or confirmed inadequate capacity is removed from service and replaced through an approved process.
10. Complete Return-to-Service Verification
Verify charging indication, battery level increase, stable AC operation, stable battery operation, startup, live image, and no unexpected shutdown. Perform required safety testing after any power-related repair.
Expected outcome: The device charges normally and maintains reliable operation. It may return to service only after all required checks pass.
If the Problem Persists
The outlet, power adapter, charging connection, dock, visible contacts, and authorized battery checks have been completed. The remaining cause may involve an internal battery, charging circuit, power input assembly, battery communication, or software.
Remove the device from service, label it Out of Service, and send it for qualified repair or bench evaluation. Use the correct Verathon documentation and approved test equipment. Battery or charging repairs must be performed only by qualified personnel.
Before return to service, confirm charging, battery runtime, AC operation, automatic power behavior, image stability, and applicable electrical safety requirements. Knowing when to stop external troubleshooting prevents unexpected loss of airway visualization.
Clinical Use Tip
Check battery status before transporting the GlideScope away from its charging location and keep a verified backup airway device available.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
"Clinical staff reported that the GlideScope showed a low battery shortly after being removed from the charger."
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
"Clinical Engineering found that the charging plug was not fully seated and the unit had not been charging."
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
"Clinical Engineering reseated the approved power connection, confirmed the charge level increased, and verified stable battery operation during a controlled functional test."
Helpful Details to Include (If Known)
- No-charge or short-runtime symptom
- Battery level before and after charging
- Charging indicator behavior
- Outlet tested
- Power adapter identification and condition
- Dock or contact condition
- Known-good accessory results
- Battery age or replacement history
- Unexpected shutdown behavior
- Final device status
Final Thought
Protect against power loss during airway care, verify the outlet and external charging path first, distinguish a battery-capacity problem from a charging problem, and document final runtime and safety verification.
That is successful troubleshooting.