OET Speaking Role-Play Test 33
OET Speaking Role-Play – Nurse (THIRTY-THIRD ROLE-PLAY)
Setting: Paediatric Ward
You are speaking to the parent of a 5-year-old boy who has been admitted with a severe ear infection. The parent is distressed and has many questions about treatment and care.
TASKS:
• Explain what a severe ear infection is and the common causes in children.
• Reassure the parent that it’s treatable and a common condition.
• Discuss the treatment plan (antibiotics, pain management, fever monitoring).
• Advise on aftercare at home (finishing medications, hydration, rest).
• Address concerns about hearing problems or long-term effects.
• Encourage open communication and follow-up with the family doctor.
Interlocutor Role (Practice Partner)
• You are the parent of a 5-year-old boy with a painful ear infection.
• You’re anxious and ask if it will damage his hearing.
• You want to know if the infection will return.
• You’re unsure how to care for him at home.
• You worry about whether future hospital admissions are likely.
Nurse Priya:
Good afternoon. I’m Nurse Priya, looking after your little one today. I understand your son has been admitted with a severe ear infection, and I can see you’re quite worried. Would you like to talk about what’s happening?
Parent:
Yes, please. He’s been in so much pain. I’m really scared. Will this affect his hearing?
Nurse Priya:
I completely understand your concern. It’s always distressing to see your child in pain. Let me reassure you — ear infections are very common in young children, especially between the ages of 1 and 7. In most cases, with prompt treatment, there’s no long-term damage to hearing.
Parent:
What exactly causes this kind of infection?
Nurse Priya:
Great question. Severe ear infections usually happen when fluid builds up behind the eardrum due to a cold, sinus infection, or allergies. Bacteria or viruses can then cause inflammation and pain. Children are more prone because their ear structures are still developing.
Parent:
Is it going to go away with treatment? I just want him to get better quickly.
Nurse Priya:
Absolutely. We’ve already started him on antibiotics, and we’re also managing his pain and fever with paracetamol or ibuprofen, as prescribed. With regular medication and rest, most children start feeling better in 24 to 48 hours.
Parent:
And what should I do once we’re home? I’m not sure how to take care of him.
Nurse Priya:
Of course. At home, it’s really important to complete the full course of antibiotics, even if he starts feeling better. Encourage plenty of fluids, rest, and keep monitoring his temperature. If he seems uncomfortable, you can continue with the prescribed pain relief at regular intervals.
Parent:
Can this happen again? I’m worried he might need to come back to the hospital.
Nurse Priya:
It’s possible, as some children do get recurrent ear infections, but there are ways to reduce the chances. Avoiding secondhand smoke, keeping up with vaccinations, and treating colds early can all help. If it becomes frequent, your doctor may refer him to an ENT specialist to assess further treatment options.
Parent:
Alright. And will he be okay in terms of hearing?
Nurse Priya:
In most cases, any hearing loss during an ear infection is temporary and due to fluid buildup. Once the infection clears, hearing usually returns to normal. If you notice any long-term changes, we’ll arrange a hearing test and follow-up care.
Parent:
That makes me feel better. Can we talk to our GP about this later?
Nurse Priya:
Yes, and I strongly encourage it. After discharge, follow up with your family doctor in about a week. If symptoms return or worsen, don’t hesitate to reach out. And of course, we’re always here if you need support before then.
Parent:
Thank you so much, nurse. I really appreciate the clear explanation.
Nurse Priya:
You’re most welcome. It’s normal to feel anxious, but you’re doing a great job by staying involved. Please let me know if you have any other questions or concerns while you're here.