Use the Medtronic Activa™ Patient Programmer Model 37642 to operate the DBS battery tester. Turn therapy on or off, check battery status, and adjust stimulation. This device helps patients with Essential Tremor or Parkinsonian tremor. Follow user instructions for optimal use and ensure MRI compatibility.
Monitor the displayed voltage levels. A reading within the normal range indicates a healthy battery. If the reading falls below optimal levels, this may signal the need for a battery replacement. Regular checks using the Medtronic 37642 DBS Battery Tester are vital for effective therapy. They help maintain consistent stimulation and optimize patient outcomes.
After assessing the battery status, document the results for further analysis. Keep a record of any changes over time to monitor battery performance. If the battery is low or showing irregularities, consult with a healthcare professional for guidance on the next steps. This proactive approach helps ensure the continued efficacy of the therapy.
In the following section, we will explore the significance of routine battery maintenance and troubleshooting common issues with the Medtronic DBS systems.
What Is the Medtronic 37642 DBS Battery Tester and Its Importance in Therapy?
The Medtronic 37642 DBS Battery Tester is a diagnostic tool used to assess the charge status of Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) device batteries. A DBS device delivers electrical impulses to targeted areas in the brain to treat conditions like Parkinson’s disease and essential tremor. Proper functioning of the DBS system is crucial for effective patient therapy.
According to Medtronic, a global leader in medical technology, the DBS Battery Tester provides valuable information regarding battery status, aiding clinicians in patient management and therapy optimization. This ensures that patients receive consistent relief from symptoms associated with neurological disorders.
The battery tester functions by measuring the battery voltage of the implanted device. A healthy battery will show an adequate voltage level, while low levels may indicate the need for a replacement or adjustment in therapy. Regular testing helps in preventing unexpected device failures.
The Neurosurgical Society of America elaborates that early detection of battery depletion can significantly affect treatment outcomes, leading to timely interventions and improved patient quality of life. The ability to assess battery status routinely ensures continuous therapeutic effectiveness.
Various factors can lead to issues with battery life, such as the frequency of device use, patient activity levels, and the condition of the implanted components. Ensuring regular assessments helps mitigate potential complications.
Research shows that up to 25% of implanted DBS devices may require battery replacement within the first five years, as noted in a study published by the Journal of Neurology. Awareness of battery levels can help reduce emergency surgical interventions.
The consequences of battery failure can result in symptom re-emergence for patients, impacting their daily lives. Interruptions in therapy can lead to increased healthcare costs and decreased patient satisfaction.
Addressing battery-related issues includes promoting regular monitoring and patient education on the importance of battery health. The American Academy of Neurology recommends that patients have their DBS systems checked at least annually.
Strategies to mitigate these challenges involve employing real-time telemetry for continuous battery monitoring. Newer DBS models may also integrate advanced features for improved battery management and alerts.
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How Do You Prepare the Medtronic 37642 DBS Battery Tester for Accurate Usage?
To prepare the Medtronic 37642 DBS Battery Tester for accurate usage, ensure that the tester is calibrated, the connections are secure, and the device is fully charged.
Calibration: Begin by calibrating the tester according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. Calibration ensures that the tester provides accurate readings. Follow a specific calibration procedure, often outlined in the user manual. This may involve using a known standard to set baseline measurements for comparison.
Secure Connections: Check all connections for stability. Ensure that the electrodes and any cables are firmly attached to the tester and have no visible damage. Loose or damaged connections can lead to erroneous readings, affecting the assessment of battery status.
Charge the Device: Confirm that the DBS Battery Tester is fully charged before use. A low battery can cause the tester to malfunction or provide unreliable data. Follow the instructions for charging the device, typically involving connecting it to an appropriate power source until fully charged.
User Manual Reference: Always refer to the user’s manual for detailed instructions specific to the Medtronic 37642. The manual provides essential information about recommended procedures and troubleshooting steps in case of any discrepancies or issues.
By following these steps, you can ensure the Medtronic 37642 DBS Battery Tester operates accurately, leading to effective management of the device’s battery status and, consequently, effective therapy for patients.
What Are the Step-by-Step Instructions to Check Battery Status with the Medtronic 37642 DBS Battery Tester?
To check the battery status with the Medtronic 37642 DBS Battery Tester, follow these step-by-step instructions:
- Gather the required materials.
- Ensure the tester is in good working condition.
- Connect the tester to the battery.
- Read the battery status on the tester display.
- Interpret the results according to the user manual.
- Disconnect the tester safely.
These points outline the essential steps to operate the Medtronic 37642 DBS Battery Tester effectively. Each of these steps plays a crucial role in determining the battery’s health and ensuring that the device functions optimally.
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Gather the Required Materials:
Gather the Medtronic 37642 DBS Battery Tester and any necessary accessories. These may include connection cables and the user manual. -
Ensure the Tester is in Good Working Condition:
Inspect the tester before use. Ensure that the battery tester has a sufficient charge and that there are no visible damages to the device. -
Connect the Tester to the Battery:
Attach the tester leads to the battery terminals. Make sure to connect the positive lead to the positive terminal and the negative lead to the negative terminal. This ensures accurate readings. -
Read the Battery Status on the Tester Display:
The tester will display the battery’s status. This may include indicators like voltage levels, charge state, or any alerts regarding battery issues. -
Interpret the Results According to the User Manual:
Use the user manual to understand what the displayed results mean. Follow the guidelines provided to determine if the battery needs replacement or servicing. -
Disconnect the Tester Safely:
After obtaining the results, carefully remove the tester leads from the battery terminals. Ensure to turn off the tester if it requires manual activation.
Following these steps enables a proper assessment of the battery status for the Medtronic 37642 DBS system, ensuring effective therapy and device function.
How Should You Interpret the Results from the Medtronic 37642 DBS Battery Tester?
The Medtronic 37642 DBS Battery Tester displays the status of the battery in a Deep Brain Stimulator (DBS) device. The tester provides information about the battery’s charge and overall health. A fully charged battery typically operates between 2.7 and 3.0 volts. When readings drop below 2.4 volts, this indicates a low battery that may need replacement soon.
The interpretation of the battery readings involves several key factors. First, a reading above 2.7 volts signals a good battery status, while readings between 2.4 to 2.7 volts suggest a declining battery that might require monitoring. If readings fall below 2.4 volts, it is crucial to schedule a replacement to maintain therapeutic efficacy. Studies indicate that patients may experience reduced therapy effectiveness as battery voltage decreases, with approximately 10-20% of patients noting a change in symptom control when voltages drop significantly.
For example, if a patient receives a reading of 2.5 volts, it can be understood as a warning sign. The physician may recommend close monitoring of the battery status in the following weeks. Conversely, a reading of 3.0 volts assures that the device is functioning optimally.
External factors also influence battery longevity and performance. Temperature extremes can affect battery chemistry, leading to variability in readings. Similarly, the frequency of device use impacts battery life; a patient using high stimulation settings may deplete the battery faster than one using a standard setting.
In summary, the Medtronic 37642 DBS Battery Tester is an essential tool for monitoring battery health. Key voltage thresholds guide decisions about therapy continuity and battery replacement. Understanding these readings can improve patient outcomes. Future research could investigate how different stimulation settings impact battery life and patient experience.
What Maintenance and Care Are Essential for the Medtronic 37642 DBS Battery Tester?
Maintenance and care for the Medtronic 37642 DBS Battery Tester are essential to ensure its accuracy and longevity.
Key maintenance and care tasks include:
1. Regularly replacing batteries.
2. Cleaning the tester’s exterior.
3. Calibrating the device as recommended.
4. Storing the device in a controlled environment.
5. Checking for software updates.
Understanding these tasks is vital for optimal device performance.
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Regularly Replacing Batteries: Regular battery replacement is crucial for ensuring consistent performance of the Medtronic 37642 DBS Battery Tester. The device operates effectively with fresh batteries, which prevent power issues and inaccurate readings. Medtronic recommends checking battery levels before each use.
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Cleaning the Tester’s Exterior: Cleaning the exterior of the device helps maintain hygiene and accuracy. Use a soft, damp cloth to wipe its surface, avoiding harsh chemicals that may damage the sensor components. This simple step enhances the lifespan of the tester.
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Calibrating the Device: Calibrating the Medtronic 37642 assures that it provides accurate battery status readings. Medtronic suggests following the calibration guidelines in the user manual. Calibration ensures that deviations in measurements are corrected, thus avoiding testing errors.
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Storing the Device in a Controlled Environment: Storing the tester in an ideal environment protects it from extreme temperatures and humidity. Doctors should keep the device in a dry, cool place. This preserves the integrity of internal components and prolongs its usability.
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Checking for Software Updates: Keeping the software updated is essential for device reliability. Medtronic periodically releases software updates that improve functionality and fix any bugs. Regularly checking for updates ensures the tester operates with the latest technology improvements.
These maintenance practices not only enhance the performance of the Medtronic 37642 DBS Battery Tester but also ensure its accuracy in monitoring battery status for effective therapy.
What Actions Should You Take If the Medtronic 37642 DBS Battery Tester Indicates a Problem?
If the Medtronic 37642 DBS Battery Tester indicates a problem, you should take specific actions to address the issue.
- Check Battery Connections
- Evaluate Error Messages
- Consult the User Manual
- Contact Technical Support
- Replace the Battery
- Schedule Routine Maintenance
Taking these actions ensures proper care and functionality of the device.
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Check Battery Connections: Checking battery connections involves ensuring that the battery is securely connected within the device. Loose or disconnected wires can lead to inaccurate readings. Ensuring the contacts are clean and free of debris can sometimes resolve the issue.
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Evaluate Error Messages: Evaluating error messages includes carefully noting any specific codes or indications provided by the tester. Each error code usually has a corresponding description in the user manual, which can guide the next steps. This direct approach can help in diagnosing the problem effectively.
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Consult the User Manual: Consulting the user manual involves referring to the documentation provided with the device. The user manual typically contains troubleshooting steps tailored to common problems, which can assist in resolving the issue without further assistance.
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Contact Technical Support: Contacting technical support means reaching out to Medtronic’s customer service or technical support team for assistance. Trained representatives can provide guidance based on the specifics of the problem, helping ensure the device is handled correctly.
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Replace the Battery: Replacing the battery is an important step if it is determined that the battery is failing. A depleted or damaged battery can cause functionality issues. Medtronic recommends using compatible replacement batteries to maintain device performance.
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Schedule Routine Maintenance: Scheduling routine maintenance involves arranging for periodic checks of the device by an authorized technician. Regular maintenance helps identify potential problems early, extending the life of the device and enhancing its reliability.
By following these steps, you can effectively manage any issues indicated by the Medtronic 37642 DBS Battery Tester and ensure optimal performance of the device.
Who Can You Contact for Further Assistance with the Medtronic 37642 DBS Battery Tester?
You can contact Medtronic Customer Service for further assistance with the Medtronic 37642 DBS Battery Tester. Their phone number is provided in the product manual. You can also reach out through Medtronic’s official website for online support. Additionally, your healthcare provider may assist you with specific questions or concerns regarding the battery tester.
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