Malignant Pleural Effusions: Evaluating the psYchosocial Impact of Indwelling Pleural Catheters on Patients

Malignant Pleural Effusions: Evaluating the psYchosocial Impact of Indwelling Pleural Catheters on Patients (MY-IPC)

The purpose of this study is to better understand the impact that Indwelling Pleural Catheters have on patients with malignant pleural effusions from a psychosocial point of view.

After being informed about the study, all patients giving written informed consent will undergo a baseline assessment including disease and social characteristics on the day of their Indwelling Pleural Catheter (IPC) insertion. At 2 weeks and 6-8 weeks post insertion, they will be contacted via telephone for a semi-structured interview focusing on the psychosocial impact that the IPC has had on their lives. Data surrounding the medical care of the IPC will also be collected.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Participant is willing and able to give informed consent for participation in the study
• Aged 18 years or above
• Diagnosis of malignant pleural effusion
• Will be undergoing IPC insertion for management of their malignant pleural effusion
• Have the means to be contacted and be able to conduct an interview in English via telephone within the study timeframe

Exclusion Criteria:

• Inability to consent
• Estimated life expectancy of <4 weeks