OET SPEAKING - DOCTORS

Cancer of the Spine

You are a consultant oncology specialist working at the Royal Melbourne Hospital.
Two days ago a 45 y.o. woman was admitted with severe back pain. MRI
revealed the extent of cancerous lesions on her spine, liver, pancreas. It is
clear that this woman has only a short time to live - maybe six to twelve months
at the outside if she agrees to chemotherapy or radiotherapy.
Patients name is: Debra Drayton

TASKS
Advise her about the xray findings.
Enquire about her family status.
Explore the options of travelling in the next 6 months.
Discuss various options available: surgery is out (Cancer too advanced);
chemotherapy; painkillers; possibly radiotherapy; managed in a hospital
setting or palliative care at home.
Tell her you will advise the Hospital chaplain who will probably visit her later on
today.

PATIENTs ROLE - Debra Drayton

You have been getting very bad back pain (middle down to lower back) for the
past 3 months. Pain has been getting worse. Two days ago the pain immobilised
you. Your husband drove you to hospital. You have had a battery of tests and
now you are being visited by the oncology specialist.
-

Ask the doctor if surgical removal of affected parts is possible

Ask if your increasing pain can be managed
How much longer do you get if you agree to chemo therapy
You have a lot to think about you need to talk things through with your
husband

You are very happy about the Doctor informing the hospital chaplain