13/01/2026
WHY PATIENT MONITORS KEEP BREAKING DOWN | fact findings you need to know.
iFix Biomedical Services has taken it time to look into this subject of continual break down of patient monitors in the hospital settings....and this is what I have to say!
Follow me carefully!
Biomedical Engineers take note.
One of the leading causes of patient monitor breakdown in hospitals is abuse and inappropriate handling of sensors, including temperature probes, SpOβ sensors, NIBP cuffs, and ECG cables.
In many cases, users handle these sensors roughly, forcefully pulling cables instead of unplugging from the connector.
There is also the common practice of unapproved transfer of sensors from one monitor to another without verifying compatibility.
When sensors with non-matching pin configurations are forced into ports, the result is often bent or broken pins, damaged ports, and permanently spoiled sensors.
Additionally, poor handling of patient monitors in the wards significantly contributes to equipment failure. As observed by iFix Biomed, Monitors are frequently placed on unstable surfaces or carried improperly, leading to repeated falls from trolleys, bedside tables, or even from usersβ hands. These falls can damage internal boards, screens, and connectors.....if your hospital is engaging in this unhealthy work practice you will keep on having issues with the patient monitors.
Keep this post, educate them on the best users practice and save the machine and save yourself stress of emergency response.
π Bottom line: Most patient monitor failures are not manufacturer defects....they are preventable human-related issues.
Proper user training, adherence to equipment handling guidelines, and collaboration with biomedical engineers can greatly reduce breakdowns, repair costs, and equipment downtime.
