OET Speaking Role Play Test 29
OET Speaking Role-Play – Nurse (Twenty Nine ROLE-PLAY)
Setting: Post-Operative Ward
You are speaking to a 62-year-old man who had knee replacement surgery three days ago. He is experiencing pain and is anxious about starting physiotherapy.
TASKS:
• Reassure the patient that pain is common but manageable after surgery.
• Explain the importance of physiotherapy for recovery and regaining movement.
• Offer pain management options and explain how they work.
• Describe what to expect during early physiotherapy sessions.
• Encourage gradual progress and reassure about the support available.
Interlocutor Role (Practice Partner)
• You are a 62-year-old man recovering from knee replacement surgery.
• You are in pain and afraid physiotherapy will make it worse.
• You ask if the pain means something is wrong.
• You wonder if you can delay the physiotherapy.
• You want to know how long it will take to walk properly again.
SOLUTION ROLE-PLAY
Nurse Binny:
Good morning, Mr. Mehra. I’m Nurse Binny, one of the nurses taking care of you during your stay. I see you had knee replacement surgery three days ago. How are you feeling today?
Patient:
To be honest, I’m in quite a bit of pain… and I’m feeling nervous about starting physiotherapy. Won’t it make the pain worse?
Nurse Binny:
I completely understand your concern, Mr. Mehra. First of all, let me reassure you that pain after this type of surgery is very common and doesn’t mean something is wrong. It’s part of the healing process, and we’re here to help manage it.
Patient:
Are you sure it’s normal? I just feel like I shouldn’t be moving the joint if it hurts this much.
Nurse Binny:
That’s a very reasonable thought, but actually, movement is essential for proper recovery. Physiotherapy helps prevent stiffness, improves circulation, and gradually restores strength and flexibility. Without it, the joint can become stiff or weaker, delaying your recovery.
Patient:
But I’m afraid it will hurt even more. Can’t I just wait a few more days before starting?
Nurse Binny:
I understand that you're nervous, but starting gentle physiotherapy early is important and safe. The therapists are trained to guide you through gradual exercises, and we will provide pain relief beforehand, so the session is more comfortable.
Patient:
Alright… what kind of pain relief are we talking about?
Nurse Binny:
We can offer oral pain medications like paracetamol or anti-inflammatories, and in some cases, stronger medicines if needed. These will be given before your session, so you can move more comfortably. If you ever feel the pain is too much, we’ll adjust the plan together.
Patient:
Okay. What will physiotherapy look like in the beginning?
Nurse Binny:
Initially, it’s very light and simple — mostly gentle bending and straightening of the knee, and some movement in bed or with a walker. The therapist will work closely with you and progress step-by-step, depending on how you feel.
Patient:
And how long will it take before I can walk properly again?
Nurse Binny:
That’s a good question. Recovery varies, but most patients start walking with support within a week or two, and independent walking within 6 to 12 weeks. You’ll continue exercises at home or in an outpatient clinic. The key is gradual progress, and we’ll support you at every step.
Patient:
Okay… that makes me feel a bit better. I just don’t want to do something that’ll make it worse.
Nurse Binny:
I promise, Mr. Mehra, we’ll never push you beyond what’s safe. Your comfort and progress go hand in hand. Our whole team — nurses, doctors, and physiotherapists — are here to help you recover safely and steadily.
Would you like me to inform the physiotherapist to visit after you’ve taken your pain relief?
Patient:
Yes, that sounds alright. Thank you for explaining everything clearly.
Nurse Binny:
You’re very welcome. I’ll make sure everything is arranged, and we’ll check in on you regularly. If you have any more questions or feel unsure, just press the call bell.