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Carpal Tunnel Release Protocol

Patient consultation and physical examination

Order nerve conduction studies

Interpret results of nerve conduction studies

Approval: Neurologist Review

Discuss treatment plan with patient

Obtain informed consent from patient

Schedule procedure

Conduct pre-operative medical clearance

Ensure carpal tunnel release surgical equipment is ready

Administer local anesthesia

Make incision at the base of the palm

Release carpal tunnel

Close incision and apply dressing

Monitor patient in recovery room

Post-operative patient review

Review wound healing and removal of stitches

Organize for physiotherapy session if necessary

Follow up patient consultations

Interpret patient's progress

Approval: Surgeon's Review

Patient consultation and physical examination

During this task, the healthcare professional will meet with the patient to discuss their symptoms and medical history. The purpose of this consultation is to gather important information that will help diagnose and determine the severity of the patient's carpal tunnel syndrome. Additionally, a physical examination will be performed to assess the range of motion, strength, and sensation in the hand and wrist. The desired outcome of this task is to have a comprehensive understanding of the patient's condition and to establish a baseline for further evaluation and treatment. Are there any challenges or discomforts that the patient should be aware of during the physical examination?

Additional Notes

Physical examination checklist

1

Assess range of motion
2

Test strength
3

Evaluate sensation

Severity level

1

Mild
2

Moderate
3

Severe
4

Unknown

Order nerve conduction studies

Nerve conduction studies are an important diagnostic tool used to confirm the diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome and to determine the severity of the condition. These tests measure the speed and strength of electrical impulses as they travel through the nerves in the hand and wrist. By ordering these studies, the healthcare professional can gather objective data that will guide the treatment plan. What are the potential challenges in scheduling nerve conduction studies?

Preferred test date

Email address

Interpret results of nerve conduction studies

Once the nerve conduction studies have been conducted, the healthcare professional needs to interpret the results. This involves analyzing the data collected during the tests to determine the severity of nerve damage and the extent of carpal tunnel syndrome. The interpretation of these results will guide the treatment plan and help determine the appropriate course of action. What factors should be considered when interpreting the results?

Additional Notes

Approval: Neurologist Review

Order nerve conduction studies
Will be submitted
Interpret results of nerve conduction studies
Will be submitted

Discuss treatment plan with patient

During this task, the healthcare professional will review the results of the nerve conduction studies with the patient and discuss the recommended treatment plan. This includes explaining the various treatment options available, such as conservative management (e.g., splinting, physical therapy) or surgical intervention (e.g., carpal tunnel release). The desired outcome of this task is to ensure the patient understands the treatment options and can make an informed decision about their care. How can the healthcare professional effectively communicate the treatment plan to the patient?

Treatment options