Evaluation of the effect of Z-track technique training on emergency nurses: A single-group pretest–posttest study

Aim

This quasi-experimental single-group pretest–posttest study aimed to evaluate the effect of Z-track technique training on emergency nurses.

Methods

The study was conducted among 75 nurses working at a state hospital in Türkiye from July to October 2023. Participants completed a descriptive characteristics form, a knowledge suggestions form, a Z-track technique skill checklist, and a Z-track technique usage frequency form. Descriptive statistics and within-group changes in repeated measurements were analyzed using a dependent-samples t-test. The significance level was set at p < 0.05.

Results

Prior to training, the participants’ mean knowledge suggestions score was 5.720, which increased to 11.880 after training (p < 0.001). The mean Z-track technique skill checklist score also increased from 1.960 pre-training to 7.520 post-training (p < 0.001). In addition, the mean Z-track technique usage frequency increased from 0.150 before training to 3.670 1 month after training (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that training improved the nurses’ knowledge and skills related to the Z-track technique, leading to increased usage frequency 1 month later. Retention of knowledge and skills was supported by applying the technique in clinical practice. Since theoretical and practical training is often forgotten without regular application, implementing evidence-based standard procedures and in-service training programmes is essential to keep nurses’ competencies up to date. These programmes should focus on critical steps for safe injection practices, include hands-on training, and utilize positive reinforcements to enhance professional competence and ensure patient safety.