OET Speaking Role Play Test 20
OET Speaking Role-Play – Nurse (TWENTIETH ROLE-PLAY)
Setting: Oncology Ward
You are speaking to a 35-year-old female patient who has just been diagnosed with breast cancer. She is in shock and has many questions about treatment and prognosis.
TASKS:
• Acknowledge her emotional reaction and allow her space to express her feelings.
• Explain the next steps (referral to oncologist, further tests, treatment planning).
• Reassure her that treatments are available and often successful.
• Briefly describe treatment options (e.g. surgery, chemotherapy, radiation).
• Offer information about support services (counsellors, breast cancer support groups).
• Encourage her to ask questions and express any fears or concerns.
Interlocutor Role (Practice Partner)
• You are a 35-year-old woman just told you have breast cancer.
• You are in shock and feel scared about the future.
• You ask if you will survive and if it means losing your breast.
• You are unsure what happens next.
• You want to know how to tell your family.
SOLUTION ROLE-PLAY
Nurse Nishe:
Hello, Ms. Sharma. I’m Nurse Nishe, and I know you’ve just received some very difficult news. Please take your time — I’m here to support you. It’s completely understandable to feel overwhelmed right now.
Patient (Ms. Sharma):
I just… I can’t believe it. Breast cancer? I’m only 35. What does this mean? Will I survive?
Nurse Nishe:
I can only imagine how scary and unreal this feels. Many women feel this way when they first hear the diagnosis. Please know that breast cancer treatments have improved a lot, and many patients recover fully, especially when it’s detected early. You're not alone in this — we’ll walk this journey together.
Patient:
Do I have to lose my breast? I don’t know what happens next.
Nurse Nishe:
That’s a very valid question. Right now, the next step will be a referral to a specialist oncologist who will guide your treatment. You may also need further tests, like imaging or blood work, to understand more about your condition. Once that's done, your treatment plan will be discussed with you in detail.
As for surgery, it depends on the size and stage of the tumour. In some cases, a lumpectomy is done — where only the lump is removed — and in others, a mastectomy may be needed. But the decision is made carefully, with your input, and based on what’s best for your health.
Patient:
I’m just really scared. How do I even tell my family?
Nurse Nishe:
That’s a very personal and emotional step. It’s okay to take your time with that. You don’t have to do it alone. We can connect you with a counsellor who can help you find the right words and emotional support. There are also breast cancer support groups where you can talk to other women who’ve gone through this. Many patients find strength and hope in those conversations.
Patient:
I feel like everything is changing so fast. What kind of treatments will I need?
Nurse Nishe:
Treatment for breast cancer usually includes one or a combination of the following:
• Surgery to remove the tumour
• Chemotherapy to destroy cancer cells
• Radiation therapy to target affected areas
• And sometimes hormonal or targeted therapies
Your oncologist will tailor the treatment based on your individual case. We’ll make sure you understand every step before anything begins.
Patient:
Will I be able to get through this?
Nurse Nishe:
Yes, Ms. Sharma. With early treatment and the right support, many women go on to live full, healthy lives. It’s okay to be scared, but please know that there’s a strong care team behind you. And I’m here to answer any question — now or later.
Patient:
Thank you, Nurse Nishe. I don’t feel as lost now.
Nurse Nishe:
You’re doing incredibly well, even in this tough moment. Let’s take things one step at a time. I’ll give you a list of resources, and if you'd like, I can help schedule a time to talk to one of our counsellors. When you're ready, we can also talk about how to involve your family. You're not alone, Ms. Sharma — we're with you every step of the way.