Z track method

JentheRN05, RN · Nov 7, 2005

Z track is generally used for Vitamin K and other shots that may discolor the skin. It is where you pull some skin off to the side, give the injection into deep tissue and allow the upper skin to go back over the site. It keeps the discoloration down.

Hope this helps

Jen

**RosesrReder, BSN, MSN, RN** · Nov 7, 2005

Thanks for the explanation Jen. :)

Tweety, BSN, RN · Nov 7, 2005

I read a while back to use the z-track method for all IM shots because it's more comfortable and less painful.

Sorry it's been so long I don't have a source. It's easier for me to use the z-track method on all IM injections rather than remember which meds require it.

rn/writer, RN · Nov 7, 2005

I read a while back to use the z-track method for all IM shots because it's more comfortable and less painful.
Sorry it's been so long I don't have a source. It's easier for me to use the z-track method on all IM injections rather than remember which meds require it.

Are there any contraindications (meds or physical attributes) for Z-track? I've never heard of any, but it's been a while since I've read up on it.

Tweety, BSN, RN · Nov 8, 2005

Are there any contraindications (meds or physical attributes) for Z-track? I've never heard of any, but it's been a while since I've read up on it.

That's a good question. Like you it's been a while too, but I haven't heard.

Maybe a recent grad can answer this for us older folks. :)

liljsmom02 · Nov 10, 2005

z track not only keeps meds from discoloring skin. it keeps meds in the muscle so that they don't irritate sub-q tissue

Tiny1Nisolet · Nov 10, 2005

z track not only keeps meds from discoloring skin. it keeps meds in the muscle so that they don't irritate sub-q tissue

Yep, I gave one today. My clinical instructor explained that the benefit is that the medication is less likely to leak back out decreasing the incidence of irritation.

liljsmom02 · Nov 13, 2005

it doesn't do any harm to z track an IM that doesn't need to be, so i just z track them all so i don't have to remember which ones i have to.

hjmcenti · Dec 9, 2005

We learned about ztrack method in school. It supposedly is less risky to the sq tissue because the med is less likely to leak out after injection. I don't think that it makes much diff with pain or bruising? I try it with heparin and lovenox when I have the time! :idea:

christvs, DNP, RN, NP · Dec 9, 2005

Can someone explain how you go about using the Z track method in that large muscle in the hip/butt area? Thanks!

veegeern, BSN, RN · Dec 9, 2005

I try it with heparin and lovenox when I have the time!

Really? Hmmm...could of sworn those were SC injections...