Common Telemetry Device Components: When They Break Down and Why

Telemetry systems continuously monitor patient vitals in real time, making them critical in hospital care. Ensuring that telemetry systems function accurately and reliably is crucial for safety and informed medical decision-making, enhancing clinical outcomes and supporting patient experiences. However, telemetry device components that are affected by wear and tear can jeopardize the precision and dependability of these devices.

Hospital telemetry devices are subject to heavy use and the harsh cleaning protocols implemented post-COVID-19. Some telemetry components are particularly vulnerable to damage and deterioration. Understanding when these parts should be swapped out — and why — allows BMETs and hospital administrators to proactively manage replacements, minimizing the risk of device failure, care disruptions, and adverse patient events.

OEM timelines and preventive maintenance

A proactive strategy begins by following OEM guidelines for parts replacement and preventive maintenance. Many OEMs require that you replace specific telemetry device components every 1-3 years. Alero Olomajeye, BMET III at Elite Biomedical Systems, recommends following any OEM replacement schedules. “The OEM warranty usually covers the first replacement. But since the manual advises regular replacement timelines, it’s a good idea to keep doing it after the warranty ends.”

Olomajeye also emphasizes the importance of proactive preventive maintenance. OEMs typically recommend preventive maintenance every 12 months. She says it’s important to stay up-to-date with preventive maintenance and test telemetry devices annually. “Every year, you want a BMET to lay hands on each piece of equipment and make sure it’s working,” she says. This helps prevent a more comprehensive repair by identifying and replacing compromised parts right away. “If you wait two, three years, you might basically be doing a rebuild,” says Olomajeye. “That requires a lot of money up-front because you're buying many parts all at once versus a few parts every year.”

Common telemetry device components requiring replacement

Telemetry systems in the field frequently experience issues with the following parts. Promptly replacing these components has multiple benefits, such as supporting care quality, minimizing device downtime, and reducing long-term maintenance costs.

Chassis/casing

The chassis or casing of a telemetry unit is the first line of defense, protecting internal components from rough handling, accidents, and contact with harsh cleaning chemicals.

Why replace the chassis?

The stressors mentioned above often cause cracks or deformities in the chassis. These issues increase the risk of device malfunction and may expose internal parts to external forces, contaminants, water ingress, and cleaning solutions.

When to replace the chassis

Inspect the casing every 6-12 months or after any change in cleaning protocols. Look for cracks, discoloration, or other signs of wear.

Replace the casing if you identify:

• Structural damage
• Compromised seals
• Damage to integrated components (battery holder, etc.)

A durable, high-quality replacement chassis offers robust protection for internal telemetry device components.

Batteries and battery holders

Battery power allows ambulatory patients to move freely without being tied to a bedside monitor and ensures monitoring continues during a building power outage.

Why replace batteries and battery holders?

Batteries are constantly inserted or removed from telemetry units, leading to wear and tear. Damage to battery holders and compartments can compromise power for the telemetry unit, leading to data loss, system failure, and critical gaps in real-time monitoring.

When to replace batteries and battery holders

Many OEM warranties require that hospitals replace the battery holder at least once yearly. Check the battery holder when inspecting the chassis and every time the batteries are changed. Replace the holder immediately if it shows signs of corrosion or structural damage. Generally, replacing the unit’s batteries every 6-12 months is advisable. Replace immediately if the battery fails to hold a charge.

Cables and connectors

Cables and connectors are the critical link between the patient and the telemetry device. The integrity of cables and connectors directly impacts whether a telemetry monitor can accurately record vital signs data in real time.

Why replace cables and connectors

Patient cables are often subjected to rough handling, especially in critical care settings, resulting in the deterioration of wires or connector ends. “The repetitive process of plugging and unplugging can deteriorate the pins, [which are the] connectors on the unit,” explains Olomajeye. “We have to replace those all the time. Sometimes it's a separate part, but some connectors are part of the chassis so you have to replace the whole thing.”

Damaged or degraded connectors and cable wires can lead to issues such as:

• Unreliable connections
• Signal interference
• Continuous monitoring disruptions
• False or “nuisance” alarms

Nuisance alarms contribute to alarm fatigue, a condition where staff become desensitized to alerts, potentially overlooking critical warnings.

When to replace cables and connectors

Single-use cables are intended for short-term use, usually 1-3 days. According to Olomajeye, reusable cables can last for a year or longer with proper care and storage. She does recommend replacing reusable cables after 18 months. Connectors should be inspected frequently, and damaged parts should be replaced immediately.

Keypads

In busy hospitals, clinicians rely on telemetry keypads to rapidly input commands, access patient data, and adjust device settings. A functional keypad is essential for efficient clinical workflows and safe, effective patient monitoring.

Why replace the keypad?

In hectic hospital settings, keypad buttons are pressed constantly, leading to wear and tear. And, like the chassis, keypads are continually exposed to harsh disinfectants. These factors can cause the keys to become less responsive or the electrical circuitry to malfunction, leading to keypad failure and interruption in patient monitoring.

When to replace the keypad

Most OEMs recommend replacing the keypad every 1-3 years. However, it's prudent to inspect the keypad every 12 months and after implementing a new cleaning protocol.

Replace the keypad if concerns are found, such as:

• Sticky keys
• Unresponsive keys
• Fading labels
• Interface problems
• Physical damage

Proactively replacing the keypad before it fails helps avoid costly issues that could potentially harm patients.

Stock up on commonly replaced components

Hospitals should keep chassis cases, battery holders, and other spare parts in stock to mitigate telemetry device downtime. Olomajeye suggests creating a formula based on monthly repair data. “Say you use five parts each month. Ideally, if you have the budget, you want to double that number, so if you swap five out, you still have five on hand. If you can’t spend that much, you can reduce the inventory, but you always want to have spare parts available.”

Purchasing high-quality replacement components from a 3rd-party manufacturer that makes their own parts can help keep costs down while extending device lifespans. A values-driven manufacturer can provide OEM-quality parts at competitive prices.
For more information about telemetry replacement parts, read our post about upgrading telemetry systems.