The most suitable action to prevent tracking of the medication in an intramuscular injection containing an irritant to subcutaneous tissue is to employ the Z-track technique. This technique involves pulling the skin and tissue to the side before administering the injection, which helps to create a zig-zag path for the medication. By using the Z-track technique, the medication is less likely to leak into the surrounding tissue and cause irritation.
On the other hand, options like massaging the injection site after administration, applying ice to the injection site prior to administration, or injecting the medication at a 45-degree angle are not effective methods for preventing tracking of the medication in this scenario.
In summary, the Z-track technique is the best approach to ensure that the medication stays within the muscle and does not track into the subcutaneous tissue, reducing the risk of irritation or adverse effects.