Posey Sitter Elite® - Manual (Page 34)

34 Sitter Elite
Troubleshooting Guide
Problem: Continuous alarm with patient in bed or chair (see pages 22-27).
Solution:
Magnet and Cord Mode
• Check that magnet is connected to plate on face of alarm.
Chair Sensor Pad
• Check that sensor pad cord and RJ11 plug are clean and undamaged. Check
plug connection to alarm.
• Check sensor pad for creases or damage to vinyl cover.
• Check “neck” of chair sensor pad for signs that urine or other liquids have
leaked into pad.
• Check that sensor pad is directly under patient’s weight.
– Pad should be towards front of chair seat if patient normally sits toward
front.
– Pad should be towards back of chair seat if posture support is in use or if
patient is at risk of forward sliding.
• Check seating/positioning aids such as wheelchair cushions or wedge
cushions. Weight from these may activate alarm, or prevent sensor from
activating.
• Check sensor pad expiration date. A continuous alarm may indicate sensor
pad is “worn-out” and should be replaced.
Over Mattress Sensor Pad
• Check that sensor cord and RJ11 plug are clean and undamaged. Check plug
connection to alarm.
• Check sensor pad for creases or damage to vinyl cover.
• Check “neck” of over mattress sensor pad for signs that urine or other liquids
have leaked into pad.
• Patient may not be heavy enough to activate sensor.
– Shoulder Placement – Adjust sensor pad so it is centered at shoulder blade
area and patient makes contact with pad.
– Try a different sensor pad location. Most patient weight is normally under
buttocks.
• Buttocks Placement - Check that sensor pad is directly under patient’s weight.
Shoulder placement may be needed for a very small individual or restless
sleeper.
• A foam pad on top of mattress may diffuse patient’s weight so sensor pad
does not activate.
– Reposition over mattress sensor pad above foam pad.
• Mattress may not bend easily when head or knee sections are raised or
lowered. Some mattresses are very stiff and may form an air pocket between
mattress and frame when bed is adjusted. This may prevent weight from
touching sensor pad. Try a different sensor pad location.
• Check sensor pad expiration date. A continuous alarm may indicate sensor
pad is “worn-out” and should be replaced.