Power Pac batteries have been recalled by Covidien because of an issue that could compromise patient safety when the units are used in conjunction with the HT70 and HT70 Plus Ventilators from Newport. There are two safety issues of note: when the ventilators are taken off of AC power, the backup battery source might kick in at once, and secondly, the unit might mistakenly show that the Power Pac battery is charged when that isn’t the case. Either situation prompts the internal backup battery to offer support for 30 minutes, but a hazard might occur when an alternate power system can’t be found within that timeframe; for instance, when a patient is in transit. No injuries have been reported thus far, and those with affected units should get in touch with Newport Medical to obtain free batteries.
Click here to learn more about the recall.