I should have told you

1. What block you had

2. How long it is expected to last, this is an estimate, the duration of effect varies widely

3. Nerves blocks are safe, and long term complications are rare (<1 : 2,500 – 5,000 blocks)

What to expect

Some nerve blocks can last up to 36 hours, depending on block and medicines used, usually:

• Weakness wears off first

• Tingling and heaviness wear off next

• Then discomfort may start

However this can occur in any order

Pain medicines

If needed, you will be discharged with/charted pain medicine

You will be more comfortable if you take some before the block has completely worn off. It takes up to an hour for most pain medicines to be properly effective, this way you’re transitioning smoothly from the block to tablets

Many pain medicines are sedating and can decrease your breathing if you take more than you need for your level of discomfort

Paracetamol and anti-inflammatories (if appropriate) are not sedating

Protect your numb limb

While you are awake, try to move your arm/leg often – to avoid pressure on one area for too long

While sleeping, protect/pad the arm/leg to avoid pressure or rolling on it

If you have a sling, use it until the block has completely worn off, don’t use your hand until the block has completely worn off

If you have had a leg block, you may not be strong enough to walk on it until it wears off, use a wheelchair/crutches until then. Check that you are allowed to walk from the surgery before trying

Use caution in extremely cold or hot weather, your arm/leg won’t be able to feel it and may get injured without you knowing

Collarbone blocks

Certain blocks can cause other symptoms

Blocks for the arm, done near the collarbone may cause

• Mild shortness of breath

• A hoarse voice

• Blurry vision

• Unequal pupils

• Drooping of the face on the same side as the block

These are common side effects, they usually go away in less than 12 hours, they result from the block of other nerves that run close to the nerves of the arm

If you have severe or prolonged shortness of breath, please call an ambulance

What if?

For queries after a block:

• If you’re an inpatient, ask the staff to call me, they or you can talk to me

• If you are at home call me, 0423 276 275

  • if it is an emergency call an ambulance

Especially if you are having the effects of the nerve block for longer than 48 hours, or the limb hurts more or differently than you expect after the nerve block wears off.