A client is undergoing a bioelectrical impedance test to estimate body fat. The nurse will explain ...

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Bioelectrical impedance involves the use of electrodes attached to the wrists and ankles to send a harmless current through the body. The flow of the current is affected by the amount of water in the body. Because fat-free tissue contains virtually all the water and current-conducting electrolytes, measurements of the resistance (i.e., impedance) can be used to estimate the percentage of body fat present. Computed tomography and MRI can be used to provide quantitative pictures from which the thickness of fat can be determined. Measurements of skinfold thickness can provide a reasonable assessment of body fat, particularly if taken at multiple sites.