Medical device manufacturer, Philips, has issued a medical device alert concerning its V680 Ventilators.
According to the manufacturer, the affected medical device may experience two potential issues with the battery.
- The ventilator may exhibit a high priority Check Vent: Battery Failed alarm if the battery is allowed to over discharge.
- The battery may fail to charge if the ventilator is stored for an extended period of time without being plugged into AC power.
The manufacturer reported that the probability of harm associated with these issues is low. So far, it has not received reports of deaths or serious injuries associated with V680 battery failures.
To reduce any risk associated with potential battery issues, the manufacturer advises affected users to follow instructions in the V680 user manual and the following:
- Avoid allowing the ventilator battery to become completely discharged. To prevent the occurrence of a non-recoverable over-discharged battery, always keep the ventilator connected to an AC outlet when not being used for transport.
- If the battery is not fully charged after 16 hours, or the ventilator annunciates a battery failed check vent alarm, have the ventilator serviced.
- To reduce the risk of power failure to the ventilator, pay close attention to the battery's charge level.
- The manufacturer recommends that the ventilator battery be fully charged before ventilating a patient or beginning patient transport.
- A new backup battery should be installed and charged within one year of the date of manufacture identified on the battery and on the shipping box.
- Use an external SpO2 monitor.
- Promptly attend to all ventilator alarms.
- Ensure that an alternative means of ventilation is available whenever the ventilator is in use.
According to the local supplier, the affected products are distributed in Hong Kong.
If you are in possession of the products, please contact your supplier for necessary action.
Posted on 11 January 2021