What should a nurse do immediately after the administration of an intramuscular injection using the Z-track method?

After administering an intramuscular injection using the Z-track method, the priority is to monitor the patient for any potential complications. This method is specifically designed to minimize irritation by sealing the medication within a 'pocket' of muscle, which can help prevent leakage and irritation at the injection site. However, even with this technique, there is still a risk of complications, such as an allergic reaction, excessive bleeding, or abscess formation.

Immediate monitoring allows the nurse to assess the patient's response to the medication and observe for any adverse effects, ensuring that any issues are caught and managed promptly. It's important to note that while recording the injection and observing for leakage may be necessary steps, they come after ensuring the patient's safety and response to the injection. Additionally, massaging the site after the Z-track injection is not recommended as it can disrupt the sealed medication pocket. Thus, monitoring the patient holds the highest priority immediately after the administration of the injection.