What action should you take if equipment malfunctions during a PMU procedure?

• A. Continue with manual method.
• B. Stop procedure, ensure safety, assess equipment, and replace/repair as needed.
• C. Ignore the malfunction.
• D. Blame the client.

Answer: (B)

When equipment malfunctions, safety and control of the procedure must come first. Stop the procedure immediately, protect the client and your workspace, and ensure there’s no risk of electrical shock or contamination. Then carefully assess the device: check power, connections, cartridge fit, and any visible damage. If you can fix the issue quickly and safely—replace a faulty cartridge, reconnect a loose lead, or repair a minor problem—you can retest the equipment before continuing. If the problem can’t be resolved safely on-site, pause the session, arrange for repair or replacement, and resume only after the device is functioning properly (or switch to an approved manual method if policy allows). Document the malfunction as part of standard safety practices. This approach preserves safety, accuracy, and client trust, and avoids risks that come from proceeding with faulty equipment.