Which IM injection technique helps reduce tissue damage and minimizes irritation?

• A. Subcutaneous technique
• B. Z-track technique
• C. Intravenous technique
• D. Intraosseous technique

Answer: (B)

The technique being tested is about preventing irritation and tissue damage from an IM injection by sealing off the injection path. The Z-track method does this by pulling the skin and underlying tissues to the side before inserting the needle. When you inject and then release the skin, the tissue moves back and closes the needle track, so the medication stays in the muscle rather than seeping into the subcutaneous tissue or leaking along the entry path. This minimizes tissue irritation, pain, and skin staining from certain irritating meds and helps protect the tissue from damage.

The other techniques listed are not aimed at this purpose: a subcutaneous technique is used for injections into the fatty tissue under the skin, not muscle; an intravenous technique is for delivering meds directly into a vein; and an intraosseous technique is used to access the bone marrow for rapid administration in emergencies.