Ultrasound machines are medical imaging machines that use sound waves on a body’s internal organs for testing, diagnostic or therapeutic reasons. It enables non-invasive and highly detailed examinations. Ultrasound machines are indispensable tools, utilised across various medical specialties for an array of diagnostic procedures.
From obstetrics and gynaecology to cardiology and internal medicine, these devices empower healthcare professionals to visualise internal structures and provide accurate diagnoses.
Ultrasound machines are quite expensive. Thus, it is important to prioritise maintenance to get proper value from the equipment.
Proper maintenance ensures prolonged equipment life, preserves diagnostic accuracy and enhances patient care. As well as save procurement costs for hospitals.
To ensure continued efficiency of the ultrasound machine, here are a 8 maintenance tips:
- Follow Manufacturer Guidelines: Each manufacturer may have specific instructions related to their ultrasound machine. Following the user guide and maintenance instructions is important in maintaining the health of the ultrasound machine and extending its lifetime for as long as possible. This includes following maintenance schedules as directed by the manufacturer.
- Proper Transducer Care: This is the most important component of the ultrasound. It should be given extra care to ensure longevity and diagnostic accuracy. The transducer should be disinfected after each use with manufacturer approved agents. Routine visual inspection should be performed. Cleaning should be routine to prevent exposure to dust and humidity. It is also important to avoid submerging the transducer in water and to ensure that it is stored upright.
- Regular System Updates and Calibrations: The ultrasound machine should be regularly calibrated to ensure accuracy of its results. Calibrations should be performed by qualified technicians, following manufacturers guidelines. Stay updated with the latest software versions and patches provided by the manufacturer to ensure the machine functions with improved efficiency and safety features.
- Carry Out Pre and Post Examination Inspection: Before and after every examination,inspect the ultrasound machine. Especially the transducer for cracks and swellings. Also check the cables and connectors. Make sure everything is in proper order. This will help you familiarise yourself with the machine. Thus, you’ll be able to notice any irregularities quicker, so they can be reported to service personnel.
- Proper cleaning: The ultrasound machine and its peripherals should be cleaned daily. Electromechanical parts such as the CPU which are dust averse should be properly wiped. As dust accumulation can lead to wear and breakdown of the machine. The transducer should be cleaned after every use. The cleaning procedure should be as recommended by the manufacturer. The air filters should also be regularly cleaned as recommended by the manufacturer. The machine should also be regularly disinfected.
- Routine Checkups and Preventive Maintenance: Have a preventive maintenance schedule as advised by the manufacturer. This will help maintain the accuracy of the machine, as well as detect any troubles that may later worsen and become expensive problems. It is advised to purchase service contracts from the manufacturers for this. As they will be in the best position to oversee check ups and repairs if need be.
- Environmental considerations: Ultrasound machines should be stored and used in the right environments, as specified by the manufacturer. Away from extreme temperatures and conditions. It should be kept in a properly ventilated area to prevent overheating.
- Invest in Staff training: Staff should be properly trained to handle and care for the ultrasound machine properly. Training should ensure they are capable of following correct cleaning procedures, proper handling of the machine and basic troubleshooting. They should be educated on the benefits of following maintenance guidelines and the risks associated with disregard. Knowledgeable staff can identify issues early, contributing to timely maintenance.
To get proper use and value from your ultrasound machine, implement these maintenance tips. By emphasising strategic and regular maintenance practices such as proper storage, staff training, pre and post examination checks, proper cleaning and routine maintenance, you will be able to ensure that your ultrasound machine stays healthy for as long as is mechanically possible.
To learn more about ultrasounds or other medical equipment, feel free to reach out to us on [email protected], we are always available to respond to you.
