This information explains nursing discharge instructions for constipation from the Urgent Care Center (UCC) or the Symptom Care Clinic (SCC).
Constipation
Keep track of your bowel movements (poop). If your healthcare provider told you to take medication to help prevent or relieve constipation (difficulty pooping), take as directed.
Call your MSK healthcare team or go to the nearest emergency room if you have:
- New or worsening nausea (feeling like you’re going to throw up) or vomiting (throwing up) that doesn’t get better after taking medications to help with nausea.
- A fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher.
- New or worsening abdominal (belly) pain.
- A lot of trouble passing gas or having a bowel movement.
Your care team may direct you to your regional Symptom Care Clinic (SCC) or the Urgent Care Center (UCC).
Follow up with your MSK healthcare team after discharge.
You can search for information on this topic and many others in MSK’s Patient and Caregiver Education library at www.mskcc.org/pe