What term refers to the fluid contained inside the cell?

The term that refers to the fluid contained inside the cell is "intracellular." This fluid is essential for maintaining cellular homeostasis and contains various substances, including water, ions, nutrients, and waste products necessary for the cell's metabolic processes. The intracellular fluid plays a critical role in biochemical reactions and helps transport substances within the cell.

In contrast, "extracellular" refers to the fluid outside the cells, including interstitial fluid (the fluid between cells) and intravascular fluid (the fluid found within blood vessels). Understanding these distinctions is crucial for anyone in the nursing field, as they relate to fluid balance, electrolyte management, and overall cellular function in the body.