No hospital or healthcare setting can do without an electrocardiogram (ECG) machine. These indispensable tools provide vital information and insights on patients’ cardiac status and health. As such, you want to ensure your ECG machines (also known as EKGs) are working perfectly and delivering accurate results. To keep your ECG machines beeping along, and to prevent the possibility of having to repair or replace them, here are a few tips to extend the life of your ECG machine. Make sure they’re common practice among your staff, and you can count on years of use and great performance.
Regular Maintenance Checks
Regular upkeep is key to extending the life of your ECG. Put regular inspections and maintenance on your calendar, enlisting the aid of a certified technician. They can locate, identify, and deal with issues before they affect readings or lead to expensive repairs or replacements. In the meantime, watch out for wear and tear on the cables, connections, leads, and other parts and report any damage to the experts.
Proper Cleaning
Healthcare facilities strive for cleanliness and sterility already. Consistent cleaning of the ECG prevents internal and external damage from dust, debris, and contaminants. Following the manufacturer’s recommendations, use only approved cleaning and sterilizing products, agents, and tools—no harsh cleaners or rough wipes or sponges. Stick to recommended procedures for cleaning and go easy on sensitive parts like the electrodes and leads, otherwise you’ll risk ruining the device.
Staff Training and Education
Does your staff understand how to use and handle the machine? Improper use and rough handling are never good for the device, obviously. Engage your staff in regular training sessions to familiarize them with appropriate use as well as any new features or functions or operations they should be aware of. Post notes near the machine to remind them of ECG dos and don’ts.
Software Updates
Stay on top of software updates. Sign up for reminders from the manufacturer regarding updates, new features, and bug fixes that can be applied only through an update. If you have a technician coming in for periodic maintenance, they’ll be aware of this, but between visits make sure your machine is getting the information it needs.
Hot, Cold, or Humid
Is your ECG in a safe space? More precisely, is it protected from extremes in temperature and humidity? Keep your ECG far from places with too much sun, high heat, frigid temperatures, and overly humid conditions. Fluctuating environmental conditions affects performance, wears out the device, and delivers faulty readings. On top of that, ensure the device receives a steady supply of power and isn’t subject to surges that could fry the insides.
By enabling and sustaining these strategies, the ECG will offer a long life of great service and even greater savings. Need an upgrade, expansion, or repair? Contact us! We offer EKG machines for sale as well as a range of other excellent equipment. Reach out to us today!