Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Research Today is a free monthly online journal that collates and summarizes the latest research about Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, including details on symptoms, causes, trauma, diagnosis, physiotherapy.

Nurse-led management of carpal tunnel syndrome: an audit of outcomes and impact on waiting times.

Newey M, Clarke M, Green T, Kershaw C, Pathak P

Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Leicester General Hospital, Leicester, UK. martyn.newey@uhl-tr.nhs.uk

INTRODUCTION: This article describes the outcome of a nurse-led service developed to manage patients referred with a presumptive diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We developed a rapid-access service in response to unacceptable waiting times for patients with carpal tunnel syndrome. The service was developed around the role of a nurse practitioner providing a single practitioner pathway from first clinic appointment, through surgery to discharge. RESULTS: Waiting times improved considerably whilst the standard and quality of care was maintained. CONCLUSIONS: There is a role for nurses to perform certain surgical procedures within a well-defined environment.

Published 12 July 2006 in Ann R Coll Surg Engl, 88(4): 399-401.
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