Equipment Maintenance and Testing
Equipment Maintenance and Testing
The exam tests planned maintenance, calibration, performance verification, electrical safety testing, and documentation in a CMMS.
Core rules
- PM intervals should be risk-based and evidence-based; OEM recommendations are a starting point, not a universal legal mandate.
- Calibration must be traceable to a national standard; test instruments need their own calibration records.
- Electrical safety tests typically include protective earth resistance, insulation resistance, and leakage current (chassis, patient, patient auxiliary). Limits depend on device type, such as BF or CF applied parts, and the applicable standard.
- Record as-found and as-left values; a "pass" without data is weak evidence.
Worked example
A monitor fails patient leakage current at 120 µA against a 100 µA limit. Check the test setup first: correct applied-part configuration, calibrated analyzer, outlet polarity, and ground. If the setup is valid, remove the device from service; inspect for fluid ingress or a damaged cord; repair and retest. Do not "adjust the limit."
Traps
- Using an uncalibrated safety analyzer.
- Testing only the chassis while ignoring patient-connected leads.
- Closing a work order without verifying battery performance or alarm function.