A client who works at a computer most of the working day comes to the clinic reporting pain in both hands that causes the client to awaken during the night. Which action should the nurse implement to assess for carpal tunnel syndrome?

Choice A reason: Tapping the wrist over the median nerve is known as Tinel’s sign. A positive result—tingling or pain in the thumb, index, middle, or ring fingers—suggests median nerve compression, a hallmark of carpal tunnel syndrome. Choice B reason: Pressure over the ulnar artery does not assess the median nerve and is unrelated to carpal tunnel syndrome. Choice C reason: Capillary refill evaluates peripheral perfusion, not nerve entrapment. It does not help diagnose carpal tunnel syndrome. Choice D reason: Sleeping position may influence symptoms but does not directly assess for carpal tunnel syndrome. It is not a diagnostic maneuver.