OET Speaking Role Play Test 18
OET Speaking Role-Play – Nurse (EIGHTEENTH ROLE-PLAY)
Setting: School Health Clinic
You are speaking to the parent of a 12-year-old child who has recently been diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. The parent is very anxious and overwhelmed by the diagnosis.
TASKS:
• Explain what type 1 diabetes is and how it affects the body.
• Discuss the importance of insulin injections, diet, and blood glucose monitoring.
• Reassure the parent that with proper care, the child can lead a normal life.
• Advise on recognising signs of low/high blood sugar and how to manage them.
• Offer information about support resources (e.g. dieticians, diabetes educators).
• Encourage the parent to ask questions and express their feelings.
Interlocutor Role (Practice Partner)
• You are the parent of a 12-year-old recently diagnosed with type 1 diabetes.
• You are very anxious and confused.
• You ask if your child will need injections every day.
• You want to know if they can still play sports and eat sweets.
• You are afraid of doing something wrong that might harm your child.
SOLUTION ROLE-PLAY
Nurse Nishe:
Good afternoon, Mrs. Singh. I’m Nurse Nishe, and I understand your 12-year-old child has recently been diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. First of all, let me say it’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed and anxious right now. You’re not alone — we’re here to support you and your child every step of the way.
Parent:
Thank you. I honestly don’t know where to start. I’m so confused. Does this mean my child will need injections every single day?
Nurse Nishe:
Yes, I know that sounds difficult, but let me explain. Type 1 diabetes is a condition where the body no longer produces insulin, a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels. So yes, your child will need insulin injections every day, usually multiple times a day, to keep their blood sugar within a safe range. But don’t worry — with proper training and support, you and your child will learn how to manage this confidently.
Parent:
That sounds hard. Can they still do normal things? Like play sports or eat sweets?
Nurse Nishe:
Absolutely. With good management, your child can live a completely normal, active life. They can play sports, attend school, have fun with friends — just like other children. As for sweets, they don’t have to be completely avoided, but it’s important to understand how different foods affect blood sugar. A balanced diet, portion control, and carbohydrate awareness are key. A dietitian can guide you on this.
Parent:
What if their blood sugar suddenly drops or rises? What do I do?
Nurse Nishe:
That’s a very important question. You'll learn to recognise the signs of low and high blood sugar.
• Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) may cause sweating, shakiness, confusion, or tiredness. If this happens, give your child something sugary — like fruit juice or glucose tablets — immediately.
• High blood sugar (hyperglycemia) can cause thirst, frequent urination, or drowsiness. If this continues, their insulin dose may need adjustment.
You’ll be taught how to use a glucose monitor and how to respond to different readings. Don’t worry — we’ll go over this with you thoroughly.
Parent:
I’m scared I might do something wrong and harm my child.
Nurse Nishe:
I completely understand, and it's okay to feel that way. But let me reassure you — we don’t expect you to know everything right away. There’s a team of professionals here to help, including diabetes educators, dietitians, and your child’s doctor. You’ll receive training, written materials, and there are even support groups for parents like you. You’re not alone.
Parent:
That’s a relief. I just want to make sure I’m doing the right thing for them.
Nurse Nishe:
And you already are — just by being here, asking questions, and showing this much care. You’re doing exactly what a great parent should do. Please feel free to ask anything, now or later. It’s perfectly okay to take this one step at a time.
Parent:
Thank you so much, Nurse Nishe. I feel a little more hopeful now.
Nurse Nishe:
You’re very welcome. We’ll support you through this journey — and your child can still thrive with the right care and love, which you clearly have in abundance.