Which method does a nurse use to elicit the Tinel sign during an assessment?

Eliciting the Tinel sign is a specific neurological examination technique used to assess conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome, where there is irritation of the median nerve. The correct method involves percussing at the location of the median nerve, typically at the wrist, which can induce a tingling sensation along the distribution of the nerve in the hand.

When percussing over the area where the median nerve runs, a positive Tinel sign is indicated by the patient experiencing tingling or a 'pins and needles' sensation in the areas of the hand that the median nerve supplies, particularly the thumb, index finger, middle finger, and part of the ring finger. This sign helps healthcare providers confirm nerve irritation or lesions effectively.

Other methods such as palpating the wrist, measuring the range of motion in the fingers, or assessing grip strength may provide valuable information about the overall function of the hand and wrist but do not specifically target the neurological response needed to elicit the Tinel sign. These methods may help in evaluating musculoskeletal issues or pain but won't directly assess the irritation of the median nerve in the same way that percussing does.