Background Patients receiving palliative care, who perceive a diminished sense of dignity, often experience greater symptomatic distress, depression and anxiety. The ‘Patient Dignity Question’ (PDQ) aims to address this challenge and promote patient centred care by asking ‘What do I need to know about you as a person to take the best care of you that I can?’ An agreed, transcribed summary of the response(s) are placed in medical and nursing notes. As part of an innovative scholarship programme for undergraduate medical trainees, a protocol for evaluating the feasibility of implementing the PDQ has been designed.

Aim To evaluate the feasibility of implementing the PDQ within an Academic Palliative Care Unit (APCU) in a University Hospital in North West England.

Methods The study uses an exploratory mixed methods design, adapted from existing studies. Suitable participants (in-patients within the APCU; able to provide informed consent) are identified, and consented appropriately by the research team. Feedback questionnaires will assess both patient and staff (HCP) perceptions on the utility and effect of the PDQ. A focus group will explore HCP’s perceptions in depth and examine the feasibility of wider implementation of the PDQ. Data on the number of patients approached, agreeing to further information, consented and providing data, will be collected.

Results Data will be collected and analysed during early 2017. Quantitative data will be analysed descriptively and examined for trends. Qualitative data will be thematically analysed in accordance with principles outlined by Braun & Clarke 2007. Study data will be ready for presentation at conference.

Conclusion There is a developing evidence base on the utility of the PDQ in promoting patient centred care. This student led study, will contribute to the evidence base and provide the groundwork for a future pilot to further assess the efficacy of the PDQ in this environment.