5 X-Ray Equipment Care Tips

If you work in the medical field, you know that x-ray machines are vital to diagnosing patients. You need to protect your investment by properly caring for your x-ray equipment. Here are five tips to help you keep your machine in top shape:

Follow a Preventative Maintenance Schedule With An Authorized Service Provider
You must follow a preventative maintenance schedule to ensure your x-ray equipment is always running correctly. An authorized service provider should create this schedule by the brand’s or manufacturer’s specific needs. Using an unauthorized service provider could cause your warranty to be voided.

Most recommend service every six months to a year, depending on your machine’s use. Following this schedule can catch minor problems before they turn into big ones. Always consult your owner’s manual or the equipment sales team for specific maintenance requirements. They can guide you to the authorized service provider in your area.

Only Use Approved Cleaners, Lubricants, and Parts

Only use products approved explicitly for x-ray equipment when cleaning or lubricating your machine. Using the wrong products can damage your machine and void your warranty. Also, care for and maintain all parts, including the x-ray tube, power supply, and cooling system.

Follow a similar care schedule if your equipment has accessories like a table or monitor. Component failure is a common cause of x-ray machine problems. For help choosing the right cleaners, lubricants, and parts, consult your authorized service provider.

Use the Imaging Equipment Correctly

You may think you know how to use your machine, but the improper technique can damage the equipment. Make sure all operators receive proper training on how to use the device. If there are changes in procedure, consult your authorized service provider to see how they will affect your machine.

Consider having regular training sessions for your staff to keep them up-to-date on the proper use of imaging equipment. The service technician can help you with this as well. Ask about adding operator training to your preventative maintenance agreement.

Monitor the Environment

Your x-ray machine needs to be in a controlled environment to function correctly. The room should be free of dust, chemicals, and other airborne particles. You should also monitor the temperature and humidity to avoid condensation inside the machine. These factors can damage your x-ray equipment over time and cause it to break down.

If you store x-ray film in the room, keep it in the dark, dust-free cabinet. The silver in the film can tarnish and affect your x-ray image quality. Always handle the film carefully to avoid scratches and fingerprints.

Regularly Check the Image Quality

Image quality can degrade over time because of many factors, including improper use, accessory damage, and the environment. You should regularly review your image quality to ensure your x-ray machine works correctly. Follow the manufacturer’s standards for image quality. If you notice a change, consult your authorized service provider.

Pacific Medimage is your medical imaging and imaging data specialist. We provide service and solutions for x-ray machines, PACS, and other medical imaging equipment. Our team of experts can help you properly care for your x-ray machine to prevent costly repairs. Contact us today to learn more about our services.