Telemetry Care = Patient Care

Article by:
Qui Du, Telemetry Technician 
 

Patient-worn Telemetry Devices 

Patient-worn telemetry devices are major assets to both medical professionals and patients as they allow more movement and flexibility when gathering patient vital signs. Through wireless technology, telemetry devices continuously and remotely transmit data to the central nursing station. Data includes heart rate (ECG), blood oxygen level (Sp02), and blood pressure (NIBP), along with any abnormal findings that may take place during testing. The data is reviewed by medical professionals to ensure appropriate patient care. 

Because patient-worn telemetry devices have such an important role in patient care, appropriate maintenance and repair services cannot be overlooked. Let’s explore some common issues, solutions, and maintenance guidelines to maximize uptime for your devices and ensure quality patient care. 

Wear and Tear 

Because of the remote nature of patient-worn telemetry devices, the devices can experience a lot of wear and tear. The devices are worn, held, and transferred to and from multiple locations.  Thus, they are often dropped, exposed to fluids or medications, and contaminated. Consequently, physical damage and fluid damage are the most common reasons for failure in these devices. Fortunately, Avante Health Solutions’ maintenance and repair service teams can professionally restore the devices so that they once again operate within OEM specifications. 

Quality Assurance

Avante’s team of repair technicians ensure quality throughout the maintenance and repair process using the following steps:

1. The expert technician will note the device’s configuration information, such as options, software, equipment label, and the RF access code. This step ensures continuity and ease of use for the customer as the device is returned with the configurations they are used to.
2. The technician will perform an initial inspection to determine any issues, identify needed parts, and recommend corrective actions to the administrative team. 
3. A quote will be generated for customer approval. Once approved, the technician will repair the device and perform comprehensive tests to confirm the device is properly repaired.
4. Once all repairs are complete, a senior technician will perform quality assurance testing of the device to ensure the repaired device operates within OEM specifications, meets customer expectations, and the paperwork is complete. 

Maximize Uptime 

In order to maximize uptime of your devices, make sure to check for damage before use. Do not use the device if it is visually damaged or if there is liquid inside the unit. Damaged devices should be serviced and repaired immediately to maintain functionality and accuracy. Always follow the instructions located in the device user manuals when operating the units.

Do not use the device if it fails the Power-On Self-Test.

Issues with Quick Fixes  

No power or intermittent power: 

The battery door must be closed during operation. The use of fresh high-quality batteries is strongly recommended. Replace batteries if the device shows a low battery alarm or indicators. 

No signal: 

Make sure the device’s equipment labels and RF access codes or frequencies match the sectors on the central station. Also, double check that the devices are inside the coverage area, the central station is working properly, and the batteries are fresh. 

Lead-off: 

Check for correct insertion of the lead set connector. Make sure lead set pins are in good condition and not corroded or damaged in any way.