DIAGNOSTIC EQUIPMENT INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCE

Module Title: DIAGNOSTIC EQUIPMENT INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCE

Module Code: BETDE701
Level: 7
Department: Biomedical Equipment Technology
Institution: Rwanda Polytechnic / Kigali College of Technology
Module Duration: One Semester
Instructor: Gedeon NDAYISHIMIYE, LLB, BME

I.                Module Description

This module is designed to provide students with theoretical knowledge and hands-on skills in the installation, operation, routine maintenance, and fault diagnosis of key biomedical diagnostic equipment. It covers a wide range of devices commonly used in clinical laboratories, ophthalmology, and ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) practice settings.

Students will explore equipment functionality, installation standards, safety compliance, electrical considerations, and preventive maintenance strategies essential for ensuring reliable performance and patient safety.

II.             Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this module, students will be able to:

1. Identify, describe, and install diagnostic laboratory equipment and ophthalmic/ENT devices.
2. Apply operational principles to the use and troubleshooting of microscopes, analyzers, and water systems.
3. Perform preventive and corrective maintenance on biomedical and optical equipment.
4. Document maintenance history, calibrations, and repairs in line with biomedical engineering protocols.
5. Implement best practices for electrical safety, optics care, and part replacement.

III.            Content Overview

1. Biomedical Diagnostic Laboratory Equipment

1.      Microscopes: Optical path, lens systems, focusing mechanisms, cleaning, and alignment.

2. Chemistry Analyzers: Semi-automated and fully automated models; reagent systems, calibration, and data processing.
3. Hematology Analyzers: 3-part and 5-part differential systems; Coulter and flow cytometry principles.
4. Centrifuges: Types, motor systems, sedimentation principles, and balancing procedures.
5. Water Purification Systems: RO, UV, distillation, and ultrafiltration systems—maintenance and troubleshooting.
6. Other Lab Instruments: pH meters, analytical balances, and water baths—handling, calibration, and performance monitoring.

2. Ophthalmic Devices

1.      Torchlights for Eye Examination: Basic maintenance and battery management.

2. Direct and Indirect Ophthalmoscopes: Lighting systems, optics, filter adjustment, and lens disc care.
3. Streak Retinoscopes: Refractive assessment tools—maintenance of sleeves and bulb systems.
4. Slit Lamps: Illumination system, magnification options, alignment, and calibration.
5. Emphasis on optical cleaning techniques, fungal prevention, and mechanical care.

3. ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) Diagnostic Equipment

1.      ENT Examination Tools (e.g., otoscope): Electrical and optical maintenance, infection control, and part replacement.

2. Installation and Testing: Focused on clinical configuration, voltage compatibility, and quality assurance checks.

IV.           Teaching Methods

i.       Lectures with multimedia demonstrations

2. Lab-based hands-on sessions
3. Case studies on equipment failures and solutions
4. Maintenance logbook and reporting assignments

V.              Assessment Methods

i.       Practical assessments (20%)

2. Written midterm exam (20%)
3. Final examination (50%)
4. Individual maintenance logbook and report (10%)

VI.           Recommended Resources

1.      Service manuals and user guides from manufacturers

2. WHO Biomedical Equipment Maintenance Manual
3. Lecture notes and maintenance record templates
4. Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for diagnostic devices