Indwelling pleural catheter (IPC)

Note

The information below is adapted from the Rocket IPC Pleural Catheter patient leaflet.

What is an IPC?

The Rocket Indwelling Pleural Catheter (IPC) is a soft tube placed in your chest to help drain fluid that can cause discomfort such as breathlessness or pain. The catheter allows fluid to be removed easily at home, either by yourself, a carer or a District Nurse, using special vacuum drainage bottles.

You will be trained on how to connect a bottle to the catheter before leaving hospital. A District Nurse will support you after discharge and can assist with drainage and dressing changes.

Once used, bottles are disposed of safely, and the catheter is covered with a clean dressing. The IPC should not interfere with daily activities. You can bathe or shower as normal, provided the dressing is secure.

What’s in the dressing pack?

Each Rocket IPC Dressing Pack and Bottle Kit includes:

  • Pre-vacuumed drainage bottle (500ml or 1000ml)
  • Dressing supplies (gauze, clear dressing, gloves, chlorhexidine wipes)
  • Waste disposal bag
  • Drainage line and valve cap

How to use your IPC

Before you begin

  • Wash hands thoroughly.
  • Set up a clean workspace.
  • Open the procedure pack and prepare the sterile field.
  • Remove the existing dressing and rewash hands.
  • Follow step-by-step instructions provided in your pack.

Draining fluid

  • Connect the bottle using the access tip.
  • Press the button gently to begin drainage.
  • Stop draining if you feel pain or after removing 1000ml (one large bottle or two small bottles).
  • Once complete, disconnect the bottle, clean the area and apply a new dressing.

Important tips

  • Only use Rocket bottles.
  • Do not use sharp objects near the catheter.
  • Contact your nurse if you notice redness, swelling or fluid around the insertion site.

Travelling and showering

  • You can shower with the catheter in place, as long as the dressing is secure and dry.
  • If planning to travel, speak to your nurse about transporting supplies.
  • Bottles cannot be taken abroad. For travel support, contact Rocket Medical or your District Nurse.

Safety information

  • Do not smoke or use flammable products while using oxygen or during the procedure.
  • Follow instructions carefully to avoid infection or injury.
  • If the catheter is pulled out or the valve becomes detached, cover the area and seek urgent medical help.

When to contact a doctor or nurse

Get in touch immediately if:

  • The area around the catheter looks red, swollen or leaks fluid.
  • You experience increasing pain or shortness of breath.
  • There is a sudden change in the colour or consistency of the drained fluid.
  • The catheter becomes damaged or disconnected.

FAQ highlights

How long will I have the IPC?

It depends on how much fluid you produce. Some people may have it for several months.

Can I drain fluid myself?

Yes, after proper training. Some patients may still need help from a nurse or carer.

What if my catheter stops draining?

It may be blocked. Try using a new bottle or contact your nurse if the issue persists.

Drainage diary

Keep track of:

  • Date and time of drainage
  • Volume removed
  • Any changes in fluid colour or symptoms

This helps your care team monitor your condition and make informed decisions.

Contact details

Clinical team

Your care team will provide local contact numbers at discharge.

Equipment and supplies

Your Rocket IPC bottles and dressings can be prescribed by your GP and collected via your local pharmacy. For support, contact:

Rocket Medical Customer Services
T: 0191 419 6988
W: www.rocketmedical.com