Abstract Background Carpal tunnel syndrome is a reasonably common disorder among working individuals. It may also be a cause of functional impairment. The aim of the study was to screen for the presence of carpal tunnel syndrome among hospital workers by non-invasive ultrasound. Results The prevalence of carpal tunnel syndrome diagnosed by ultrasound among hospital workers was 21.5%. Age and Boston carpal tunnel questionnaire scale were positively correlated to median nerve cross sectional area. Conclusions Ultrasound can be used as a non-invasive and convenient method for screening for carpal tunnel syndrome.