OET Speaking Role-Play Test 34
OET Speaking Role-Play – Nurse (THIRTY-FOURTH ROLE-PLAY)
Setting: Community Pharmacy
You are speaking to a 45-year-old woman who is picking up her first prescription for high cholesterol. She appears confused and unsure about what lifestyle changes are needed.
TASKS:
• Explain what high cholesterol is and how it affects the body (e.g. plaque buildup in arteries, increased risk of heart disease and stroke).
• Reassure the patient that high cholesterol can be managed with proper care.
• Clarify how and when to take her prescribed medication, and why consistency is important.
• Offer dietary advice:
o Reduce saturated fats (e.g., butter, red meat)
o Increase fibre (e.g., oats, legumes, fruits, vegetables)
o Avoid processed or fried foods
• Encourage regular physical activity (30 mins/day) and quitting smoking if applicable.
• Discuss follow-up check-ups, regular cholesterol testing, and tracking progress.
Interlocutor Role (Practice Partner)
• You are a 45-year-old woman just diagnosed with high cholesterol.
• You are unsure what cholesterol actually means or how serious it is.
• You ask, “Will I need to take this medicine forever?â€
• You feel confused about what foods you can or can’t eat.
• You are anxious about how soon you’ll see improvement and whether lifestyle changes are enough.
Nurse:
Good afternoon, I see you’re here to pick up your medication for high cholesterol. I understand this is new for you — would you like to go over what it means and how to manage it?
Patient:
Yes, please. I honestly don’t understand what cholesterol is or how serious this is.
Nurse:
Absolutely, I’m glad you asked. Cholesterol is a fatty substance found in your blood. While your body needs some cholesterol, too much can build up in your arteries and form plaques, which can restrict blood flow. Over time, this increases your risk of heart disease and stroke. The good news is that it's very manageable with the right care.
Patient:
That sounds serious. Does that mean I’ll need to take this medicine forever?
Nurse:
That’s a very common question. The medication helps lower your bad cholesterol (LDL) and protect your heart. Some people may take it long term, but in many cases, with healthy lifestyle changes, the dose can be reduced — or even stopped — under your doctor’s guidance. What’s most important now is to take it consistently, as prescribed, usually once a day, and try not to miss any doses.
Patient:
Okay, but I’m really confused about what I can and can’t eat now.
Nurse:
I completely understand. Here’s a simple breakdown:
• Avoid saturated fats, such as butter, fatty cuts of red meat, full-fat dairy, and processed or fried foods.
• Increase your fibre intake — foods like oats, whole grains, legumes, fruits, and vegetables help lower cholesterol.
• Also, opt for healthy fats, like those found in nuts, seeds, and olive oil.
Would you like a leaflet that lists heart-healthy foods?
Patient:
Yes, that would help. How soon will I see any improvement?
Nurse:
Good question. You may not feel any different right away, but the medicine and lifestyle changes begin working internally within a few weeks. Your doctor will likely schedule a follow-up blood test in 6 to 12 weeks to check your progress. It’s also important to track your cholesterol levels regularly and attend check-ups.
Patient:
Do I need to do anything else apart from diet?
Nurse:
Yes — in addition to diet, I recommend regular physical activity. Even 30 minutes of brisk walking per day can make a big difference. If you smoke, quitting is one of the best things you can do for your heart health. And try to limit alcohol as well.
Patient:
Alright, it feels like a lot, but I guess I’ll have to start slowly.
Nurse:
Exactly — don’t feel pressured to change everything overnight. Start with small steps, like switching to low-fat milk or walking during lunch breaks. Over time, these changes add up and can have a big impact.
Patient:
Thank you. I feel more reassured now.
Nurse:
I’m really glad to hear that. If you ever have questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to come in or speak with your doctor. You’re not alone in this — we’re here to support you on the way to better health.