CDS Equipment Operation & Maintenance 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: When inspecting a power wheelchair before use, which component should be checked first to ensure safe operation?
- Battery charge level (Correct answer)
- Armrest padding condition
- Footrest color
- Seat cushion brand
Correct answer: Battery charge level
Battery charge level must be verified first because insufficient power can cause the chair to stop unexpectedly, creating a safety hazard.
Question 2: A Hoyer lift sling shows fraying along the seam. What is the appropriate action?
- Remove from service immediately and tag it out (Correct answer)
- Use it for lighter clients only
- Reinforce with duct tape until replacement arrives
- Continue use and document the damage
Correct answer: Remove from service immediately and tag it out
A frayed sling must be removed from service immediately because sling failure during a lift can cause serious injury to the client and caregiver.
Question 3: Which lubrication point on a manual wheelchair requires the most frequent attention?
- Axle bearings and caster stems (Correct answer)
- Seat upholstery seams
- Armrest tubes
- Headrest mount
Correct answer: Axle bearings and caster stems
Axle bearings and caster stems are subject to constant friction and wear, requiring regular lubrication to maintain smooth rolling and prevent premature failure.
Question 4: A client's augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) device screen is unresponsive. After a restart fails, what is the recommended next step?
- Contact the device manufacturer's technical support (Correct answer)
- Replace the device immediately
- Use a universal TV remote as a substitute
- Disable the touchscreen and use voice only
Correct answer: Contact the device manufacturer's technical support
Manufacturer technical support should be contacted because AAC devices are specialized and warranty or repair protocols vary by brand and model.
Question 5: When storing a standing frame that will not be used for several weeks, which practice is most important?
- Cleaning all straps and pads and storing in a dry location (Correct answer)
- Leaving it assembled to save setup time
- Storing it outdoors under a cover
- Deflating all padding components
Correct answer: Cleaning all straps and pads and storing in a dry location
Cleaning and dry storage prevents mold, bacteria growth, and material degradation that can compromise hygiene and structural integrity.
Question 6: A caregiver notices that a hospital-grade adjustable bed's side rail does not lock in the raised position. The correct response is to:
- Take the bed out of service and place a work order (Correct answer)
- Prop the rail with a pillow
- Warn the client verbally and continue use
- Tape the rail in position
Correct answer: Take the bed out of service and place a work order
A malfunctioning side rail is a fall-risk hazard and the bed must be taken out of service until repaired by qualified maintenance personnel.
Question 7: During a scheduled maintenance check of a stair lift, a technician finds the safety edge sensor does not trigger when pressure is applied. This finding indicates:
- The lift should be decommissioned until the sensor is repaired (Correct answer)
- The sensor is optional and can be bypassed
- Manual spotting is sufficient compensation
- Only lighter users may operate the lift
Correct answer: The lift should be decommissioned until the sensor is repaired
Safety edge sensors prevent entrapment injuries; a non-functional sensor is a critical safety failure requiring immediate repair before the lift is used.
CDS Equipment Operation & Maintenance 2
When inspecting a power wheelchair before use, which component should be checked first to ensure safe operation?