OET Speaking Role Play Test 19
OET Speaking Role-Play – Nurse (NINETEENTH ROLE-PLAY)
Setting: Rehabilitation Centre
You are speaking to a 50-year-old male patient recovering from a hip replacement surgery. He is frustrated with his slow progress and worried about returning to normal activities.
TASKS:
• Acknowledge his frustration and reassure him that progress takes time.
• Explain the importance of following physiotherapy exercises.
• Discuss realistic timelines for recovery and regaining mobility.
• Encourage small daily goals and staying motivated.
• Address concerns about going back to work or normal activities.
• Offer emotional support and invite him to ask questions.
Interlocutor Role (Practice Partner)
• You are a 50-year-old man recovering from hip replacement surgery.
• You feel like recovery is too slow and you’re falling behind.
• You want to know if you’ll ever get back to normal.
• You ask when you can return to work.
• You are worried the surgery wasn’t successful.
SOLUTION ROLE-PLAY
Nurse Nishe:
Good morning, Mr. Kapoor. I’m Nurse Nishe, and I’m here to check in on your progress and how you're feeling today. I understand you're feeling a bit frustrated with the recovery?
Patient (Mr. Kapoor):
Yes, I am. It’s been slow and honestly, I feel like I’m not improving as much as I should. I just want to get back to normal.
Nurse Nishe:
I hear you, and it’s completely valid to feel that way. Hip replacement recovery can be mentally and physically demanding. But please rest assured, progress after this kind of surgery takes time, and what you’re experiencing is actually quite common.
Patient:
It just feels like I’m falling behind. I keep wondering if the surgery even worked.
Nurse Nishe:
That’s a normal worry, but from what I’ve observed and what your physiotherapist has reported, your recovery is on track. There’s no sign of any complication, and your new hip is healing well. The discomfort and limited mobility at this stage are expected, but you will see steady improvement with time and the right effort.
Patient:
So… when will I be back to normal again?
Nurse Nishe:
Great question. While each patient heals differently, most people start walking more comfortably by 6 weeks, and many return to light normal activities between 8 to 12 weeks. Full recovery, including strength and flexibility, may take 3 to 6 months. The key is being consistent with your physiotherapy exercises, which play a huge role in regaining mobility.
Patient:
Those exercises are tough sometimes. I feel like giving up.
Nurse Nishe:
I know they can be challenging, but they are essential for regaining strength and avoiding stiffness. Maybe we can set small, daily goals — like increasing your walking time a few minutes each day or being able to get up more easily from a chair. These little wins will add up and help you stay motivated.
Patient:
I just keep thinking—when can I go back to work?
Nurse Nishe:
That depends on the nature of your job. If it’s mostly desk-based, you may be able to return within 6 to 8 weeks, but if your job involves physical labour or standing for long hours, you may need closer to 3 months. Your doctor and physiotherapist will guide you based on how well you're progressing.
Patient:
I hope I can manage. This has been harder than I expected.
Nurse Nishe:
And that’s totally understandable. It’s okay to feel overwhelmed sometimes. You’re not alone—we’re here to support you through every step. If you're feeling emotionally low or anxious, we can connect you with a counsellor or support group. Talking to others who’ve gone through the same journey can really help.
Patient:
Thank you, Nurse Nishe. I really needed to hear that today.
Nurse Nishe:
You’re very welcome, Mr. Kapoor. You've come a long way already, and with patience and persistence, you’ll get back to doing what you love. If you have any more questions or concerns, I'm here to help anytime.