Sitter Elite
35
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 Pad Sensor
• 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 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 expiration date. A continuous alarm may indicate sensor is
“worn-out” and should be replaced.
Over or Under Mattress Sensor
• 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 so it is centered at shoulder blade
area and patient makes contact with pad.
– Try a different sensor 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 does
not activate.
– Reposition under mattress sensor above mattress, under foam pad.
– Reposition over mattress sensors 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. Try a different sensor location.
• Check sensor expiration date. A continuous alarm may indicate sensor is
“worn-out” and should be replaced.
