Which nerve provides sensory innervation to the lateral hand?

The median nerve is responsible for providing sensory innervation to the lateral aspect of the hand, specifically the thumb, index finger, middle finger, and part of the ring finger. This nerve travels through the carpal tunnel in the wrist and terminates in the hand to deliver sensation to these areas.

It is important to recognize that the median nerve plays a crucial role in the functioning of the hand, especially in terms of fine motor skills and sensation in the fingertips. This makes it essential in everyday tasks that require precision.

The other nerves listed serve different areas; for instance, the ulnar nerve primarily innervates the medial part of the hand and the little finger. The radial nerve supplies the posterior aspect of the arm and forearm, providing sensory information from the back of the hand and fingers. The axillary nerve, mainly responsible for sensation to the skin overlying the deltoid muscle and a small area of the lateral upper arm, does not contribute to sensation in the hands.

Thus, the median nerve is the correct answer, as it directly corresponds to sensory innervation of the lateral hand.