If you are discharged from hospital with an active nerve block, you will be given the following instructions:

Whilst your limb is numb, it is important to protect it from extreme hot or cold, pressure or awkward positions which may injure you without your knowledge.

If you have weak or numb leg, do not try to walk on it until the feeling and strength have come back. Only walk when there is somebody to assist you to make sure that you do not fall.

Whilst complications related to nerve blocks and catheters are generally not severe and rare, please be vigilant for the following signs that there may be a problem and contact your anaesthesiologist at the emergency number above immediately should you notice any of the following:

• Major Bruising (minor bruising is common at the site of the nerve block but if you notice a rapidly expanding swelling at the site of the block, please contact your anaesthesiologist)
• Signs of infection (redness, swelling, tenderness and heat to the touch at the block site)
• Shortness of breath
• Numbness of the face, visual disturbances or hoarseness of the voice
• Dizziness, ringing in the ears, numbness or strange sensations around your mouth
• Palpitations, chest pain, feinting

As the block starts wearing off, you may feel pins-and-needles in the affected area. Be sure to take some pain medication before the block wears off totally to prevent the pain coming back suddenly. Your anaesthesiologist will discuss with you what pain medication to take.

Your anaesthesiologist will contact you telephonically to find out how you are until your block has resolved.