Abstract
Purpose: We aim to describe the clinical presentation, interprofessional management, and functional outcomes of a patient with thiamine deficiency. Problem: Thiamine deficiency can result in peripheral polyneuropathy and cognitive deficits that limit function and participation. Despite deficits that warrant interprofessional neurorehabilitation, previous reports focus narrowly on medical management. Case: A 36-year-old female was admitted to inpatient rehabilitation with a diagnosis of Guillain Barre. She underwent evaluation by the interprofessional team that revealed cognitive deficits inconsistent with Guillain Barre. Further medical workup identified a thiamine deficiency. Comprehensive treatment included supplementation managed by the physiatrist; promotion of motor learning and neuroplasticity to address cognitive and mobility deficits by physical and occupational therapists; and psychosocial services facilitated by neuropsychology, psychiatry, and case management. The patient demonstrated significant improvements in her functional mobility while cognitive deficits persisted. Conclusion: A team approach among physiatrists, therapists, and psychosocial providers contributed to improved outcomes for a patient with functional and cognitive deficits caused by thiamine deficiency.
How could this topic be generalized to other health professions?
Patients with thiamine deficiency have medical, rehabilitation, and psychosocial needs that cannot be fully addressed by any one provider. Thus, it is important for all health professionals that serve individuals with thiamine deficiency to be aware of the different roles of essential team members and make efforts to collaborate across professions as indicated by patient presentation.
Which allied health professions were a part of the study or investigated?
Nursing; Social Work; Speech-Language Pathology; Physical Therapy; Occupational Therapy; Medical Doctor
Recommended Citation
Thomas, C., Hashmi, T., Delgado-Lebron, J., & Massad, R. (2026). Interprofessional Collaboration in Inpatient Rehabilitation for Patient with Thiamine Deficiency-Related Sensorimotor and Cognitive Deficits – Case Report. Journal of Interprofessional Practice and Collaboration, 6(1). Retrieved from https://repository.ulm.edu/ojihp/vol6/iss1/7
Included in
Clinical and Medical Social Work Commons, Nervous System Diseases Commons, Occupational Therapy Commons, Other Medical Specialties Commons, Physical Therapy Commons, Physiotherapy Commons, Psychiatric and Mental Health Commons, Psychiatry Commons, Speech Pathology and Audiology Commons, Substance Abuse and Addiction Commons
