At least half the number of patients treated for rectal cancer will experience a bothersome change in their bowel function (Peeters et al, 2005). Symptoms include frequency, urgency, fragmentation of stools and possible incontinence, which often occur in combination. Many who suffer from such symptoms are unaware that altered bowel function is a common consequence of rectal cancer treatment and that a range of helpful interventions exist (Nikoletti et al, 2008). In this paper, Claire Taylor, Ellie Bradshaw, Julie Walker and Tracy Wood examine how, in addition to preparing patients for what to expect after treatment, nurses can lead in both assessing and addressing any changes in bowel function. Intervening early during follow-up can ameliorate much distress and minimise the extent to which bowel function affects individual quality of life (Taylor, 2011).