What is the best method for a nurse to administer Iron dextran (Imferon) for a female adolescent with no hemoglobin increase after iron therapy?

Administering Iron dextran (Imferon) using the Z-track method is recognized as the best approach due to the nature of the medication and the route of administration. Iron dextran is typically administered intramuscularly, and using the Z-track method helps minimize discomfort and reduce the risk of irritation and staining of the skin.

The Z-track method involves displacing the skin and subcutaneous tissue before injecting, which creates a sealed pocket that prevents the medication from leaking back into the subcutaneous tissue and reduces the chance of staining. This technique is particularly important for iron preparations, as they can cause permanent discoloration of the skin if extravasation occurs.

While iron can also be given orally or subcutaneously, given that this patient has already shown no increase in hemoglobin with previous therapy, it suggests that more direct administration may be necessary for more effective absorption and utilization. Intramuscular injections without the Z-track technique could lead to discomfort and complications from the iron formulation itself. Thus, utilizing the Z-track method for intravenous administration ensures a more effective delivery of the medication while also prioritizing patient comfort and safety.