When performing an iontophoresis treatment, the inactive electrode should be held by the client or placed under their:

When performing an iontophoresis treatment, the inactive electrode should be held by the client or placed under their:

• A. Foot
• B. Shoulder
• C. Head
• D. Hand

Answer: (B)

In iontophoresis, you’re sending a direct current between two electrodes: the active electrode sits on the treatment area to drive ions into the skin, while the inactive (return) electrode completes the circuit. The position of the return electrode matters because you want the current to travel through a safe, comfortable route away from delicate facial tissues and the treated site. Placing the inactive electrode under the shoulder (or having the client hold it) uses a large, relatively tolerant muscle area to anchor the return flow, keeps the path of current away from the face, and helps maintain consistent skin contact and patient comfort. Choosing a location like the shoulder minimizes direct stimulation of sensitive regions and reduces the risk of irritation or burns near the treatment area. Placing it on the feet or hands can introduce more movement, less stable contact, or a longer, less controlled current path, and positioning near the head or face would bring the return path too close to the treated area.

In iontophoresis, you’re sending a direct current between two electrodes: the active electrode sits on the treatment area to drive ions into the skin, while the inactive (return) electrode completes the circuit. The position of the return electrode matters because you want the current to travel through a safe, comfortable route away from delicate facial tissues and the treated site. Placing the inactive electrode under the shoulder (or having the client hold it) uses a large, relatively tolerant muscle area to anchor the return flow, keeps the path of current away from the face, and helps maintain consistent skin contact and patient comfort.

Choosing a location like the shoulder minimizes direct stimulation of sensitive regions and reduces the risk of irritation or burns near the treatment area. Placing it on the feet or hands can introduce more movement, less stable contact, or a longer, less controlled current path, and positioning near the head or face would bring the return path too close to the treated area.