Z-track, a technique for injecting irritating preparations into muscle without tracking residual medication through sensitive tissues. The tissue to be injected is pulled downward and in the direction of the body’s midline. It is held in this position until the drug is injected. When the tissue is released, the usually straight needle track will become a broken line similar to the letter Z. This allows the medication to remain deep in the muscle and prevents upward seepage through the tissue along the needle track. The area is not massaged after injection. A separate needle is used after the medication is withdrawn from the vial. This eliminates depositing the drug along the needle track while it is piercing the skin.
