What does the first "I" in AEIOU-TIPPSS stand for?

In the mnemonic AEIOU-TIPPSS, the first "I" stands for Insulin. This acronym is used by EMTs and other healthcare professionals to help remember potential causes of altered mental status.

Insulin plays a crucial role in the regulation of blood glucose levels. Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, can lead to confusion, altered consciousness, or even coma in patients. Identifying insulin-related problems is vital in emergency situations, especially in patients with diabetes who may have taken too much insulin or have not eaten sufficiently.

The other terms in the options—ischemic stroke, infarct, and infection—while important in assessing altered mental status, are represented elsewhere in the AEIOU-TIPPSS mnemonic or pertain to different specific conditions. Recognizing that insulin is a key factor allows EMTs to quickly assess and treat patients who may be experiencing metabolic derangements.