Once the needle is removed, the tissue is released.
This creates a zigzag pattern or Z track of the needle path.
This article explains the Z-track method of injection.
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It provides step-by-step instructions for how to use the Z-track method and why it may be used.
The the Z-track method is only used is for intramuscular injections, and not other types of injections.
Any kind of injection creates a track from the needle site.
That leaking is also called tracking.
The Z-track method helps to prevent leaking after an IM injection by altering the track created by the needle.
When done properly, there are two curves in the track that gives it the “Z” shape.
Your healthcare provider will advise you on which medications can be used with this method.
You should feel confident administering the injection prior to performing it.
A milliliter is the same as a cubic centimeter and volume can be expressed using either measurement.
The smallest syringe available for the volume of liquid administered is best for proper control and dosing.
For example, to administer .5 ml of medication, it is best to use a 1 cc syringe.
To administer 2 ml of liquid, it is usually best to use a 3 cc syringe.
Using the appropriate size syringe can help minimize the risk of medication errors.
The size of the needle is expressed in both length and gauge (diameter).
The lower the gauge number, the larger the diameter of the needle.
For example, a 22 gauge needle is smaller than an 18 gauge needle.
Thicker and more viscous medications require a larger gauge needle.
The length of a needle is expressed in centimeters (cm) or inches.
Timing
It shouldn’t take more than a minute or two to perform an injection.
Using the Z-track method does not add any appreciable time to the process of an intramuscular injection.
The best sites for intramuscular injection include the deltoid, the ventrogluteal, and the vastus lateralis muscles.
There are fewer limitations in the volume of the IM medication administered at this site.
If preparing the medication, double-check to double check medications and dosages to follow the instructions exactly.
Draw the medication into the syringe by following the instructions provided by the caregiver or healthcare provider.
confirm there is no air in the syringe that can be injected into the patient.
It’s okay if a small amount of air is in the syringe at this point.
If additional cleaning is necessary, perform that first and make the alcohol swab the final preparation.
If enters the bloodstream, it could cause abnormally rapid absorption of the medication.
Some providers will pull back on the plunger after the needle is inserted and before the medication is given.
This is to ensure that the medication was not being injected directly into a vein.
Post-Procedure
Do not rub the site after the injection.
That can force medication to leak out of the injection site.
Keep any injection site clean and covered.
If any signs of irritation are noted, be sure to contact your healthcare provider for guidance.
It is not intended to replace any instruction you may have received.
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