Fundamentals of Nursing Q 319
All of the following nursing interventions are correct when using the Z-track method of drug injection except:
A. Prepare the injection site with alcohol.
B. Use a needle that’s at least 1” long.
C. Aspirate for blood before injection.
D. Rub the site vigorously after the injection to promote absorption.
Correct Answer: D. Rub the site vigorously after the injection to promote absorption
The Z-track method is an I.M. injection technique in which the patient’s skin is pulled in such a way that the needle track is sealed off after the injection. This procedure seals medication deep into the muscle, thereby minimizing skin staining and irritation. Rubbing the injection site is contraindicated because it may cause the medication to extravasate into the skin.
Option A: Clean the injection site with an alcohol pad to minimize the possibility of infection. Allow the area to air dry for a few minutes. The Z-track method is not often recommended but can be particularly useful with medication that must be absorbed by muscles to work. It also helps to prevent the medication from seeping into the subcutaneous tissue and ensures a full dosage.
Option B: In an adult, the most commonly used needles are one inch or one and a half inches long, and 22 to 25 gauge thick. Smaller needles are typically used when injecting a child. Some medications are dark-colored and can cause staining of the skin. If this is a side effect of the medication you will be taking, the doctor may recommend using this technique to prevent injection site discoloration or lesions.
Option C: Use one hand to pull downward on your skin and fatty tissue. Hold it firmly about an inch away (2.54 cm) from the muscle. On the other hand, hold the needle at a 90-degree angle and insert it quickly and deeply enough to penetrate your muscle. If there is no blood in the syringe, push on the plunger to inject the medication slowly into the muscle.