Computer tomography scanners are vital pieces of equipment for modern medical systems. CT scans combine multiple x-ray images taken from different angles to provide a picture of an object’s inside without cutting into it.
Naturally, these machines are complicated and contain lots of moving parts. Having a CT scanner break down at the wrong time can create enormous problems and headaches for healthcare facilities. Below are three fundamental CT scanner maintenance tips to help you avoid a nightmare scenario.
Address Error Codes and Other Issues Promptly
One of the most obvious indicators that your CT scanner needs maintenance comes from error codes. These codes appear prominently on the scanner’s display and won’t go away until a user acknowledges them. Unfortunately, as anyone who has ever owned a car knows, it is all too easy to ignore warning indicators if you want to.
Make sure that all your technicians know to note down error codes and keep a record of them. You should always investigate an error code and, where possible, address the issue it is reporting as promptly as possible.
Maintain Your CT Suite Properly
Looking after any machine or appliance is the number one best way of improving its lifespan. Few people bother to read the manuals for their home appliances. In a medical setting, there can be a tendency for everyone to assume that someone else has read the manual, even though no one has.
It is always worth reading the manuals for complex equipment like CT scanners. Not only does the manual tell you how to operate the machine, but it also offers tips on how to maintain the machine and maximize its life expectancy. By following this advice at all times, you can squeeze every last bit of life out of your CT scanners’ components.
Have a Supplier On Speed-Dial
Even if you take every precaution and treat your CT scanner perfectly, something will break sooner or later. When this occurs, you don’t want to be left scrambling to find a suitable supplier. It is much better to have someone lined up beforehand so that you can move straight to ordering the new part when you need to. Not only do you need to know who sells the type of part you need, but you also need to know whose parts are compatible with your CT scanner.
For example, if your scanner is part of the GE CT Lightspeed range (Pro, VCT, RT, and Xtra variants), you need a GE CT MX240 X-Ray Tube to replace a worn or faulty unit. There are several potential signs that your x-ray tubes need replacing; you can learn more about this at DirectMed. This website is a valuable resource for CT Scanner owners.
CT scanners are generally robust machines built to last. As long as you look after them and follow the manufacturer’s instructions, they should keep working for years. Just make sure you have a plan in place in case they do break down.
