OET Speaking Practice Role-Play Test 8
OET Speaking Role-Play – Nurse (EIGHTH ROLE-PLAY)
Setting: General Practice Clinic
You are speaking to a 50-year-old male patient who is experiencing side effects from a new blood pressure medication. He is thinking of stopping the medicine without consulting the doctor.
TASKS:
• Ask about the side effects the patient is experiencing.
• Explain why it is important not to stop the medicine without medical advice.
• Provide reassurance and discuss how some side effects may reduce over time.
• Explain the risks of uncontrolled blood pressure.
• Discuss possible options such as dose adjustment or alternative medications.
• Encourage the patient to speak to the doctor before making changes.
Interlocutor Role (Practice Partner)
• You are a 50-year-old man taking new blood pressure tablets.
• You feel dizzy and tired since starting the medicine.
• You are planning to stop the tablets because you don’t like the side effects.
• You ask if high blood pressure is really dangerous.
• You’re unsure about talking to the doctor again.
• You ask if there are any natural ways to control blood pressure.
SOLUTION OF ROLE-PLAY
Nurse Nishe:
Good morning, Mr. Carter. I understand you’ve recently started a new medication for your blood pressure. How have you been feeling since starting it?
Patient (Mr. Carter):
Honestly, not great. I’ve been feeling dizzy and very tired ever since I started taking it. I’m thinking of just stopping it.
Nurse Nishe:
I’m really sorry to hear that, Mr. Carter. Can I ask—how long have you been taking the medication?
Patient:
About a week. But these side effects are bothering me too much.
Nurse Nishe:
Thank you for letting me know. It’s important to know how your body is reacting. I understand the dizziness and tiredness are frustrating. But before making any changes, it’s very important not to stop the medication on your own.
Patient:
Why not? It’s making me feel worse.
Nurse Nishe:
That’s a fair question. The body sometimes needs a little time to adjust to new medicines. These side effects may settle down in a few days or weeks. But stopping the medicine suddenly can cause your blood pressure to rise quickly, which may increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, or kidney problems.
Patient:
I didn’t know high blood pressure could be that dangerous.
Nurse Nishe:
Yes, and the tricky part is that high blood pressure often doesn’t cause symptoms right away. That’s why it’s called the “silent killer.†People may feel fine but still be at risk of serious health issues. That’s why it’s so important to manage it properly.
Patient:
Okay… but I really don’t like how this medicine makes me feel. Are there any other options?
Nurse Nishe:
Absolutely. There are several types of blood pressure medications, and not all of them cause the same side effects. The doctor can adjust the dose or try a different medication that may suit your body better. But it’s best to discuss this together with the doctor rather than stopping it suddenly.
Patient:
I wasn’t sure if I should call the doctor again. I feel like I’m bothering them.
Nurse Nishe:
Please don’t ever feel that way. It's our job to support you, and your doctor would absolutely want to know if you're having side effects. Your comfort and safety are just as important as controlling your blood pressure.
Patient:
Are there natural ways to lower blood pressure too?
Nurse Nishe:
Yes, and it’s great that you’re thinking about that. Some natural ways include:
• Reducing salt intake
• Eating more fruits and vegetables
• Getting regular exercise, even just walking
• Managing stress and limiting alcohol
• Losing weight, if needed
These methods are excellent alongside medication, but usually they aren’t enough by themselves—especially at the beginning.
Patient:
Alright. So I’ll speak to the doctor before doing anything.
Nurse Nishe:
That’s the best decision, Mr. Carter. I can help you schedule a review appointment or let the doctor know about your side effects. You’re doing the right thing by speaking up and taking charge of your health.
Do you have any other questions or concerns?
Patient:
No, I think you’ve cleared up a lot of things for me. Thank you, Nurse Nishe.
Nurse Nishe:
You’re very welcome. And remember, we’re always here to help. You don’t have to manage this alone.