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Constipation

Questions?

  • How long since bowels opened?
  • What is normal?
  • Any abdominal pain/vomiting?
  • Has the patient taken any medication such as opiates?
  • Consider obstruction and/or perforation.

Grade 1 (Green)

No bowel movement for 24 hours over pre-treatment normal.

Advice

  • Review supportive medication and give advice regarding diet and fluids
  • Encourage patients to look at the constipation self-care advice section
  • Ask your patient to let their chemotherapy team know at their next appointment

Grade 2 (Amber)

No bowel movement in last 48 hours over pre-treatment normal.

Advice

Contact the Acute Oncology Helpline immediately:

(Mon-Fri 9-5): 07831 147653
Out of hours: 0208 672 1255 ask for the oncology out of hours service

Grade 3 (Red)

No bowel movement in last 72 hours or more over pre-treatment normal.

Advice

Contact the Acute Oncology Helpline immediately:

(Mon-Fri 9-5): 07831 147653
Out of hours: 0208 672 1255 ask for the oncology out of hours service