10.2: Symptoms or problems 

Pain

Pain or discomfort around the IPC site is common in the first days after insertion. It is important to get on top of it with painkillers. You can take Paracetamol regularly (as per packet instructions) and Ibuprofen if needed (provided you are able to take Ibuprofen). If you are struggling with pain despite this, contact the team responsible for your IPC. Pain after IPC insertion usually improves after a few days, and by 2 weeks it should be barely noticeable. If you get severe or worsening pain or breathlessness contact the team responsible for your IPC or seek immediate medical attention in an emergency.

 Itching 

Itching is common in the first few days after insertion. You could try over-the-counter antihistamine tablets. If there are signs of an allergic reaction to the dressing, such as a rash, swelling or blisters, speak to your community nurse about alternative dressings or contact the team responsible for your IPC.

Damaged or displaced IPC

The IPC is stitched in place for the first 2 weeks. By the time your stitches are removed your body will have formed a tight seal around it so it should not get displaced with light knocks or pulls. If you are worried that the IPC is cracked or displaced, use the emergency clamp supplied, cover with a dressing and contact the team responsible for your IPC. If you are unable to get through to them, seek immediate medical attention.

Little or no fluid draining from your IPC

If the fluid output stops suddenly, this could mean the IPC is blocked. Please contact the team responsible for your IPC so they can assess it and unblock it in clinic, if required. If the fluid output slowly reduces over days or weeks, it is likely that less fluid is being made. Again, contact the team responsible for your IPC to discuss the next steps.

Fluid colour changes

Variations in fluid colour can be normal, but do note this in your drainage diary so it can be reviewed at your next appointment. Pleural fluid due to cancer can become blood-stained with time, again this is normal, especially if you are otherwise feeling well in yourself. If you notice the fluid becoming thicker, cloudy or with debris in it please contact the team responsible for your IPC. If you are feeling unwell in yourself, you should seek urgent medical attention.

Changes around the IPC that might indicate infection

Some redness and pain is expected in the first days after insertion. If this is getting worse, there is redness spreading to the surrounding skin or there is pus around the IPC please contact the team responsible for your IPC. If you are feeling unwell in yourself, you should seek urgent medical attention.