Overview
Introduction
Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is compression of the median nerve as it passes through the carpal tunnel at the wrist.
NCLEX-RN
NCLEX-RN
Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is compression of the median nerve as it passes through the carpal tunnel at the wrist. It is the most common compressive neuropathy of the upper limb. Studies cited in the 2024 American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) guideline report an adult prevalence of 2.7–4.9%. Registered nurses meet CTS everywhere: in occupational health, primary care, pre-operative clinics, day-surgery units, pregnancy care and long-term care. The diagnosis is made by the nurse practitioner (NP) or physician, and surgery is decided with the surgeon. The registered nurse (RN) contributes four things: - a careful assessment that separates typical CTS from findings that need urgent attention; - safe post-procedure and post-operative care; - teaching that helps the patient protect the nerve; - timely escalation, with clear documentation of who was notified. The Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) advises seeking diagnosis and treatment as early as possible to avoid permanent damage to the median nerve.
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