Final answer:
Z-track injection is a technique used to administer intramuscular injections that prevents medication leakage into the subcutaneous tissue, especially for irritating or viscous medications.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Z-track injection technique is a method used to administer intramuscular injections. This technique involves pulling the skin and subcutaneous tissue to one side before inserting the needle into the muscle. Once the medication is administered and the needle is removed, the skin is released, which seals the medication in the muscle and prevents it from leaking into the subcutaneous tissue. It is typically used for medications that are irritating to the subcutaneous tissue or have a high viscosity, such as iron dextran.