Managing Pleural Effusions: Nursing Care of Patients With a Tenckhoff Catheter

Malignant pleural effusions result from advanced metastatic disease and can have a devastating effect on patients and their families. The insertion of a tunneled pleural catheter, such as a Tenckhoff catheter, is a treatment option for this patient population. Nurses play a significant role during the patient's journey with the disease process, providing the skills necessary to promote self-care and autonomy, resulting in improved quality of life. In this article, the authors discuss the nursing care of patients who have a Tenckhoff catheter.