Z-Track Injection Technique: Preventing Leakage in IM Vaccine Administration

A nurse working at a community health fair is administering intramuscular injections of influenza vaccine. Which injection technique will avoid leakage into subcutaneous tissue?

Massaging the injection site

Aspiration prior to injection

Injection at a 45-degree angle

Injection by the Z-track method

The Z-track injection method avoids leakage into subcutaneous tissue. Pull the client’s skin downward or upward, and inject the vaccination (or medication) at a 90-degree angle before releasing the skin. Aspiration is done to assure that the injection is not going into a vein or artery. Massaging the injection site can introduce the material into subcutaneous tissue. A 45-degree angle is incorrect.