OET Speaking Practice Role-Play Test 1
OET Speaking Role-Play – Nurse ( ROLE-PLAY)
Setting: General Practice Clinic
You are speaking to the parent of a 1-year-old child who is scheduled for routine vaccinations. The parent is anxious and unsure whether the vaccines are safe.
TASKS:
• Explain the purpose of childhood vaccinations and how they protect against serious diseases.
• Address the parent’s concerns about vaccine safety and side effects in simple language.
• Reassure them about the scientific testing and monitoring of vaccines.
• Provide information on what to expect after vaccination (mild fever, soreness).
• Advise on comfort measures post-vaccination and when to seek help.
Interlocutor Role (Practice Partner)
• You are the parent of a 1-year-old child.
• You are nervous about your child receiving multiple injections.
• You ask if vaccines can cause serious problems.
• You are unsure if all vaccines are necessary.
• You ask what you can do if your child has a fever afterward.
SOLUTION OF ROLE-PLAY
Nurse Nishe:
Good morning. I’m Nurse Nishe. I understand your little one is here today for their 1-year vaccinations. How are you feeling about it?
Parent (Interlocutor):
Honestly, I’m feeling a bit nervous. It’s a lot of injections at once.
Nurse Nishe:
That’s completely understandable. Many parents feel the same. Would it help if I explained why these vaccines are so important?
Parent:
Yes, please.
Nurse Nishe:
Vaccinations protect your child from serious and sometimes life-threatening illnesses like measles, polio, diphtheria, and meningitis. These diseases can be very dangerous, especially for young children. Vaccines train the immune system to fight off these infections before they can cause harm. So, getting vaccinated gives your child strong protection early in life.
Parent:
But are they really safe? I’ve heard they can cause serious problems.
Nurse Nishe:
I hear your concern, and it’s good to ask questions. Vaccines go through very strict testing before they are given to children. They are approved only after extensive research and trials. Even after approval, they are constantly monitored for safety. Most children only experience mild and short-term side effects, like a sore arm or a low fever.
Parent:
So no serious long-term effects?
Nurse Nishe:
Serious reactions are extremely rare. In fact, the risk of the diseases is much higher than the risk from vaccines. For example, measles can lead to pneumonia or brain swelling, while the vaccine might just cause a little fever for a day or two. The benefits strongly outweigh the risks.
Parent:
I’m also not sure if all these vaccines are really necessary.
Nurse Nishe:
That’s a very common question. Each vaccine in the schedule is there to protect against a specific disease that is either common or can be very serious in young children. Skipping one could leave your child unprotected, or it could reduce the effectiveness of the others. Giving them on time is the best way to build strong immunity.
Parent:
Okay… What if my child gets a fever after the vaccination?
Nurse Nishe:
That’s a good question. A mild fever or some fussiness is quite normal after vaccination. You can give paracetamol if needed—just follow the dose for your child’s age. Also, make sure they get plenty of fluids, and let them rest if they’re sleepy.
Parent:
And what should I do if it gets worse?
Nurse Nishe:
If the fever goes above 102°F (39°C), or if your child seems very drowsy, is not feeding, or has a rash or high-pitched crying, please call the clinic or come in right away. These are uncommon, but we always prefer to check if you’re unsure.
Parent:
Alright. I just want to do what’s best, but it’s a bit scary.
Nurse Nishe:
You’re a caring parent, and it’s completely okay to feel that way. You're not alone—we’re here to guide and support you. You’re doing the right thing by protecting your child now so they stay healthy later.
Do you have any more questions or anything else you’d like to talk about before we proceed?
Parent:
No, I think you’ve explained it all really clearly. Thank you, Nurse Nishe.
Nurse Nishe:
You’re very welcome. I’ll get everything ready, and I’ll be right here with you and your little one during the vaccinations. We’ll make it as quick and comfortable as possible.