Word parts
What it means
In the body, stimulation is a signal that makes a cell or organ respond, such as a nerve signal that makes a muscle contract or a hormone that makes a gland release its product. In nursing care, the word describes how much input a client receives: a client may need a calm, low-stimulation room (after a head injury, with mania, or for a preterm baby), or gentle stimulation to stay awake or to take part in activities.
For the nurse
When the client needs low stimulation, dim the lights, limit noise and visitors and group care so the client can rest.
At a glance
| Spanish | estimulación |
|---|---|
| Also written | stimulations, stimulate, stimulates, stimulated, stimulating, stimulus, stimuli |
Related terms
neuron
A nerve cell: a cell that carries electrical and chemical signals through the nervous system.
sensory
Relating to the senses, or to the nerves that carry feeling from the body to the brain.
receptor
A structure on or in a cell that a specific chemical, such as a hormone or drug, attaches to in order to act.