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What This Guide Helps With
This guide addresses situations where the handle or control buttons of a Verathon GlideScope video laryngoscope are unresponsive. It focuses on external, easily verifiable causes first—such as battery charge, connections, and contamination—before assuming internal electronics failure. The goal is to restore safe functionality for patient use.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Check Battery Charge
- Ensure the handle battery is fully charged.
- Low or depleted batteries are a common cause of unresponsive buttons.
- Swap with a known-good battery if available.
Inspect Battery Contacts and Connections
- Remove the battery and inspect the contacts for corrosion, dirt, or damage.
- Clean contacts with a lint-free cloth if dirty.
- Reinsert battery and test functionality.
Examine Handle for Visible Damage
- Look for cracks, moisture, or other physical damage to the handle or buttons.
- Damage may cause intermittent or complete unresponsiveness.
Check Control Cable / Module Connection
- Ensure the handle is properly seated in the display module or docking station.
- Disconnect and reconnect to confirm secure connection.
- Loose or partially seated handles may prevent button input registration.
Power Cycle the Device
- Turn off the display module or laryngoscope system, wait 10 seconds, then power on.
- Some unresponsiveness can be cleared by a simple reboot.
Verify Software / Firmware Status
- Ensure the display module firmware is up to date.
- Some button responsiveness issues may be firmware related.
- Consult the device service records or manufacturer’s update schedule.
If the Problem Persists
External causes have likely been ruled out.
- Remove the laryngoscope from service.
- Label as Out of Service.
- Send the handle to the manufacturer or biomedical bench for repair or evaluation.
Knowing when to stop prevents further damage and ensures patient safety.
Clinical Use Tip
- Do not attempt to intubate a patient using an unresponsive handle.
- Always have a backup laryngoscope available.
- Troubleshoot only in a safe, non-patient environment.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
“Handle buttons not responding during pre-use check.”
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
“Battery contacts were dirty; secure connection restored only temporarily.”
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
“Battery contacts cleaned; if problem recurs, handle sent out for repair.”
Helpful Details to Include
- Battery voltage measured
- Button press test results
- Handle visual inspection notes
- Any firmware/software versions
- Final device status
Final Thought
Patient safety is paramount. Logical, stepwise troubleshooting helps identify external causes efficiently, avoids unnecessary internal repairs, and ensures proper escalation when internal faults are suspected. Documentation preserves history for future reference and supports cost-effective maintenance.
That is successful troubleshooting.