Warning Signs for Sensor & Cable Replacement
ECG Leads and Clips: Green/black buildup on copper or silver clips can be a part of normal oxidation but should be thoroughly cleaned after every surgical event for the monitor to capture accurate signal acquisition. Excessive buildup could mean that your staff is using ultrasound gel (acoustic gel) rather than an electrode gel (conductive) for best signal acqusition. Ultrasound gel will not only block the electrical signal, but will also quickly degrade/erode the clips.
SpO2 Sensor: If the infrared light on the pulse ox sensor is intermittent, it means that thin internal wires have frayed or are pulling apart at the junction; a precursor to complete sensor failure. Having a working spare SpO2 sensor will allow you to troubleshoot the parameter and eliminate the possibility the problem resides in the monitor itself. Refer to Tips and Tricks: “Maintaining SpO2 Sensors” for more information on cleaning and maintaining your SpO2 sensor.
Blood Pressure Cuffs: When the blood pressure cuff’s Velcro wears out, it's time for new cuffs. Taping the cuff will restrict airflow and cause inaccurate readings. If you receive consistent inflation errors it may be due to a leak in the cuff or the BP tube.
EtCO2 Sensor and Airway Adapters: The airway adapter to which the mainstream sensor is attached can become contaminated with secretions, water or by aerosolized medications. For precise and accurate signal acquisition, best medical practice calls for a new airway adapter for each unique surgical monitoring event. Ask Leading Edge about Reusable Airway Adapter Tubes (RAAT's) that can be used for up to 100 surgical monitoring events. *Note: do not use alcohol to clean the airway adapter. Alcohol will ‘eat’ at the anti-fog chemical of the airway adapter
Tip #1: Examining your monitor, leads, sensors, cables and cuffs on a regular basis as well as cleaning the accessories after each use, will extend the life of your monitoring equipment and improve the accuracy and precision of your monitor.
Tip #2: Keep a stock of backup sensors, cables, probes, cuffs and other accessories available. Having a working spare allows troubleshooting a parameter to eliminate a monitor error and will also help you avoid compromising a patient's safety during a monitoring event.
For best medical practice to attain optimal signal acquisition and to protect patients' lives during anesthetic procedures, it is recommended that all sensors, cables & probes be replaced every 12-18 months. Timing of replacement is subject to frequency of use, how sensors, cables & probes are handled during procedures, if they are properly cleaned after each procedure and how they are stored.
Call Leading Edge Customer Support for more information on proper cleaning techniques or to reorder additional accessories. 1-877-897-5577