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