Final answer:
Damage to the ulnar nerve leads to a characteristic claw hand in a patient.
Step-by-step explanation:
A patient presenting with a characteristic claw hand would indicate damage to the ulnar nerve. The ulnar nerve is responsible for controlling the muscles that allow the hand to make a claw-like shape. When the ulnar nerve is damaged or compressed, it can lead to a loss of control and function in the affected fingers, resulting in a claw hand.