On this page
Asset Type
Manufacturer
Model
What This Guide Helps With
Addresses the “Rescue Ready” indicator failing to show green, focusing on battery, pads, device self-test, and external readiness conditions.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
1. Ensure Patient Safety
Confirm the AED is not in active clinical use. If needed, replace with a backup AED before troubleshooting.
2. Check Battery Status
- Verify the battery is properly installed.
- Confirm the battery is charged and recognized by the device.
- Expected outcome: Device recognizes battery, no alerts; indicator may turn green.
3. Inspect Pads
- Ensure pads are correctly installed and connected to the AED.
- Check pad expiration dates and integrity.
- Expected outcome: Pads recognized; no pad error messages.
4. Observe Device Self-Test Results
- Power on the AED and allow it to complete its automatic self-test.
- Note any error messages displayed.
- Expected outcome: Self-test completes successfully; “Rescue Ready” indicator should turn green.
5. Verify Device Placement and Environment
- Ensure the AED is on a stable surface, not in extreme temperatures, and free from moisture.
- Why this matters: Environmental factors can prevent successful self-test completion.
6. Check for Accessories or Firmware Updates
- If your department tracks firmware versions, confirm the device has the latest approved version.
- Remove any non-standard accessories that might interfere with readiness checks.
- Expected outcome: Device free of external interference; indicator turns green.
If the Problem Persists
All external causes (battery, pads, self-test, environment) have been ruled out. Device should be:
- Removed from service
- Labeled Out of Service
- Sent for repair or bench evaluation by qualified service personnel.
Note: Knowing when to stop is proper troubleshooting and maintains patient safety.
Clinical Use Tip
Never troubleshoot an AED on an active patient. Move the patient to a backup AED or manual resuscitation device before proceeding. Only troubleshoot when the device is safe to handle and power is stable.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
"Rescue Ready indicator not showing green during routine check."
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
"Battery and pads verified; self-test fails to complete successfully."
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
"Device removed from service and sent for repair; Out of Service label applied."
Helpful Details to Include (If Known)
- Battery status checked and confirmed
- Pads installed and verified
- Self-test errors documented
- Environmental conditions noted
- Device removed from clinical service
Final Thought
Patient safety is paramount. Systematic troubleshooting helps identify external causes first and ensures devices are properly escalated for repair when internal faults are likely. Accurate documentation preserves clinical continuity and liability protection.
That is successful troubleshooting.