What it means
Often called guided imageryGY-did IM-ij-reeA relaxation method in which a person pictures a calm, pleasant scene in detail, often led by a voice or recording.Full entry when a nurse, a recording or a script leads the person. The client imagines a peaceful place using all the senses: what it looks like, sounds like, smells and feels like. It is a nondrug way to lower anxiety and to help with pain, and is often used with slow breathing.
For the nurse
Use it alongside, not instead of, ordered pain medicine. Choose a quiet time, let the client pick the scene, and ask afterward how well it helped.
Related terms
analgesic
A drug that relieves pain.
guided imagery
A relaxation method in which a person pictures a calm, pleasant scene in detail, often led by a voice or recording.