Occupational English Test

Writing sub-test
Test information

The OET Centre Telephone: +613 9652 0800

GPO Box 372 Facsimile: +613 9654 5329
Melbourne VIC 3001 [Link]
Australia

© OET Centre — Test information ABN 84 434 201 642

General Information
Time Allocation

45 minutes in total.
5 minutes is allocated for reading time.
40 minutes is allocated for writing time.

Test format and procedure

The Writing sub-test is specific to each profession. You take this part of the OET using materials
specifically for your profession – a nurse does the task for nursing, a dentist does the task for
dentistry, and so on. In each test, there is one task set for each profession based on a typical
workplace situation and the demands of the profession.
This sub-test requires candidates to write a letter (referral, transfer or advice) based on case notes
which are provided. Sometimes, and particularly for some professions, a different type of letter
is required (e.g., a letter of transfer or discharge, or a letter to advise or inform a patient, carer, or
group).
Candidates are required to write approximately 180-200 words in the body of the text.
The first five minutes of the test is allocated for reading time. During this time, you may study the
task and notes but may not write, underline or make any notes.
For the remaining 40 minutes you may write your response to the task. You receive a printed
answer booklet in which you must write your response (a sample answer booklet is included with
these sample materials). This also has space for rough work. You may write in pen or pencil.

Assessment procedure

After you sit the OET Writing sub-test your sample of writing is assessed by two qualified and
experienced English assessors who have been trained in OET assessment procedures. The
assessment is based on the following 5 criteria:

• overall task fulfilment

• appropriateness of language
• comprehension of stimulus
• linguistic features (grammar and cohesion)
• presentation features (spelling, presentation, layout).

Every Writing sub-test script is assessed in Melbourne. All scripts are double marked.
The sample materials

The sample materials consist of:

• sample writing tasks for 12 health professions
• a sample response for each task

Using the materials

• Select the writing task appropriate for your profession.

• Allow enough time (40 minutes) to do the sample writing sub-test in one sitting. This will give you an
indication of the requirements of the OET.
• Set a timer or alarm clock for 40 minutes or ask someone to act as a timer.
• On completion of the letter, check your work.
• Read the sample answer provided to establish if it contains additional points or information. Remember the
sample letter is a sample only; there is more than just one correct way to express a letter.

Rationale
Although work is now mainly done on computer, most medical professionals continue to prepare letters as
part of regular practice. The writing task, taken directly from the workplace context, requires the selection
and organisation of relevant information and its presentation in a clear, accurate form that is appropriate for
the intended reader.
Preparing such a letter with only limited time is a reality for practising professionals.

What Writing skills are tested?

Your letter is assessed against five criteria:

• Overall task fulfilment – including whether the response is of the required length

• Appropriateness of language – including the use of appropriate vocabulary and tone in the response,
and whether it is organised appropriately
• Comprehension of stimulus – including whether the response shows you have understood the
situation and provide relevant rather than unnecessary information to your reader

• Control of linguistic features (grammar and cohesion) – how effectively you communicate using the
grammatical structures and cohesive devices of English

• Control of presentation features (spelling, punctuation and layout) – how these areas affect the
message you want to communicate
How can I improve on each criterion?

Overall task fulfilment

Write enough so the assessors have a sufficient sample of your writing – the task requires approximately
180-200 words in the body of the letter
Don’t write too much – you may need to select content carefully to keep to the required word count
Use your own words as much as possible – don’t simply copy sections from the case notes
Avoid using a ‘formulaic’ response – if you include elements that do not fit the task, it indicates a lack of
flexibility in your writing
Don’t include information that the intended reader clearly knows already (e.g., if you are replying to a
colleague who has referred a patient to you)

Appropriateness of language

Organise the information clearly – the sequence of information in the case notes may not be the most
appropriate sequence of information for your letter
Highlight the main purpose of your letter at the start – this provides the context for the information you
include
Be clear about the level of urgency for the communication
Always keep in mind the reason for writing – don’t just summarise the case notes provided
Focus on important information and minimise incidental detail
If it will help, be explicit about the organisation of your letter: e.g., ‘First I will outline the problems the patient
has, then I will make some suggestions for his treatment.’
Consider using dates and other time references (e.g., three months later, last week, a year ago) to give a
clear sequence of events where necessary
Remember that all professional letters are written in a relatively formal style
Avoid informal language, slang, colloquialisms and spoken idiom unless you are sure this is appropriate (e.g.,
use ‘Thank you’ rather than ‘Thanks a lot’)
Avoid SMS texting abbreviations in a formal letter (e.g., use ‘you’ not ‘u’)
Give the correct salutation: if you are told the recipient’s name and title, use them
Show awareness of your audience by choosing appropriate words and phrases: if you are writing to another
professional, you may use technical terms and, possibly, abbreviations; if you are writing to a parent or a
group of lay people, use non-technical terms and explain carefully

Comprehension of stimulus

Demonstrate in your response that you have understood the case notes fully
Be clear what the most relevant issues for the reader are
Don’t let the main issue become hidden by including too much supporting detail
Show clearly the connections between information in the case notes if these are made; however, do not add
information that is not given in the notes (e.g., a suggested diagnosis), particularly if the reason for the letter
is to get an expert opinion
Take relevant information from the case notes and transform it to fit the task set
If the stimulus material includes questions that require an answer in your response, be explicit about this –
don’t ‘hide’ the relevant information in a general summary of the notes provided
Don’t simply try to include every piece of information from the case notes in your letter in the same order it is
presented in the case notes

Control of linguistic features (grammar and cohesion)

Show that you can use language accurately and flexibly in your writing
Make sure you demonstrate a range of language structures – use complex sentences as well as simple ones
Split a long sentence into two or three sentences if you feel you are losing control of it
Review areas of grammar to ensure you convey your intended meaning accurately: particular areas to focus
on might include
• articles – a/an, the (e.g., ‘She had an operation.’, ‘on the internet’)
• countable and uncountable nouns (e.g., some evidence, an opinion, an asthma)
• verb forms used to indicate past time and the relationship between events in the past and now (past
simple, present perfect, past perfect)
• adverbs that give time references (e.g., ‘two months previously’ is different from ‘two months ago’)
• prepositions following other words (e.g., ‘Thank you very much to see for seeing …’, ‘sensitivity of to
pressure’, ‘my examination on of the patient’, ‘diagnosed with cancer’)
• passive forms (e.g., ‘The patient should advised to relax’, ‘He involved in an accident.’ for ‘He was
involved in an accident.’)
Use connecting words and phrases (‘connectives’) to link ideas together clearly (e.g., however,
therefore, subsequently)
Create a mental checklist of problems that you have with grammar and go through this when you
review your response towards the end of the test: particular areas to focus on might include
• number agreement, e.g. ‘The test result shows that …’, ‘There is no evidence …’, ‘He lives …’, ‘one of the
side effects’
• complete sentences, i.e., the main clause includes ‘subject and verb’, e.g., ‘On examination showed
that …’ should be ‘Examination showed that …’ or ‘On examination it was found that …’
• gender agreement, e.g. ‘Mr Jones and her daughter’
• tense agreement, e.g., ‘Examination on 15 May 2006 revealed she is overweight.’ [creating
confusion over whether she is still overweight at the time of writing]
Control of presentation features (spelling, punctuation and layout)

Take care with the placement of commas and full stops

Make sure there are enough – separating ideas into sentences
Make sure there are not too many – keeping elements of the text meaningfully connected together
Leave a blank line between paragraphs to show clearly the overall structure of the letter
Don’t write on every other line – this does not assist the reader particularly
Check for spelling mistakes and for spelling consistency through your writing (e.g., with a patient’s name)
Remember that many of the words you write are also in the case notes – check that the spelling you use is
the same
Be consistent in your spelling: alternative spelling conventions (e.g., American or British English) are
acceptable as long as your use is consistent
Don’t use symbols as abbreviations in formal letters
Avoid creating any negative impact on your reader through the presentation of the letter
Use a clear layout to avoid any miscommunication
Make sure poor handwriting does not confuse the reader over spelling and meaning
Write legibly so the assessor can grade your response fairly using the set criteria

How is the Writing sub-test assessed?

The Writing sub-test is scored by two experienced assessors who receive ongoing training, monitoring, and
feedback on their performance after each administration of the test.
Assessors give a score from 1 to 6 for each of the five criteria listed above using a detailed set of level
descriptors to guide their decisions. A score of 6 is the highest for each criterion. The five criteria are equally
weighted in the scoring and analysis process.
Each candidate’s script is graded by two assessors independently. Neither assessor knows the scores the
other assessor gives or the scores awarded to the candidate for other sub-tests.
The two separate sets of raw scores for each candidate’s script are analysed for the whole group of
candidates taking the sub-test at the same administration. A multi-faceted Rasch analysis of the data is done
using FACETS software (Linacre 1989). This analysis takes account of patterns of assessor behaviour and
compensates for assessors whose scores are consistently lenient or severe.
After the initial analysis, any scripts which have mis-fitting scores (i.e., which do not fit the pattern expected
for the analysis) are re-scored by a third assessor (again without any knowledge of the previous scores
given) and the statistical analysis is repeated.
The final score for each candidate’s script is therefore not a simple mean average of the two (or three)
assessors’ raw scores. Instead, it is a ‘fair score’, compensating for particular assessors’ severity or leniency.
FOR OFFICE USE ONLY
ASSESSOR NO.
ASSESSOR NO.

Occupational English Test

WRITING SUB-TEST
Answer Booklet
READING TIME: 5 MINUTES
WRITING TIME: 40 MINUTES

You may answer this sub-test in pen or pencil.

Please print in BLOCK LETTERS

Candidate number – –

Family name

Other name(s)

Profession

City

Date of test

Candidate’s signature

YOU MUST NOT REMOVE OET MATERIAL FROM THE TEST ROOM.

The OET Centre Telephone: +613 9652 0800

GPO Box 372 Facsimile: +613 9654 5329
Melbourne VIC 3001 [Link]
Australia

© OET Centre ABN 84 434 201 642

WRITING SUB-TEST
Time allowed: 5 minutes’ reading time
40 minutes’ writing time

Instructions
Complete the cover page with your details before you start the test.

READING TIME (5 MINUTES)

You may study the writing task and notes but may not write, use a highlighter or make any notes.

WRITING TIME (40 MINUTES)

Use blank pages in the answer booklet for rough work. Do not remove or destroy any part of the answer booklet.

Please write clearly in pen or pencil. Cross out anything you do not want the examiner to consider.

Space for notes and draft copy

Use the reverse of this sheet if you need more space.

OET WRITING SUB-TEST—ANSWER BOOKLET 2

Answer

OET WRITING
SUB-TEST—ANSWER BOOKLET 3
Answer

OET WRITING
SUB-TEST—ANSWER BOOKLET 4
 Occupational English Test

WRITING SUB-TEST
Dentistry
Practice test

Please print in BLOCK LETTERS

Candidate number – –

Family name

Other name(s)

City

Date of test

Candidate’s signature

YOU MUST NOT REMOVE OET MATERIAL FROM THE TEST ROOM.

The OET Centre Telephone: +613 9652 0800

GPO Box 372 Facsimile: +613 9654 5329
Melbourne VIC 3001 [Link]
Australia

© OET Centre — Practice test ABN 84 434 201 642

OCCUPATIONAL ENGLISH TEST
WRITING SUB-TEST: DENTISTRY
TIME ALLOWED: READING TIME: 5 MINUTES
WRITING TIME: 40 MINUTES
Read the case notes and complete the writing task which follows.

Notes:

Patient: Mrs Joyce Williams

56 Oak Lane
Stillwater
Ph 9751 1234
DOB: 9.5.66

Reason for Presenting: Further Endo required on 37

Dental History: Extractions

Fillings
Scale and clean, regularly
Radiographs
RCTs

Medical History: Myocardial infarction 1.6.2007
Allergic to penicillin

Current Medication: Aspirin 100mg every day

Family & Social History: Married, 2 children
Social worker
Smoker

TURN OVER 2
Examination: Missing 18, 28, 48
Porcelain crowns 15, 24
RCTs 15, 24
DO amalgam 23
MO amalgam 16, 17, 25, 26, 27
Occ amalgam 38, 47
MOD amalgam 45, 46

Treatment Record:

2.5.06 37 DO tunnel from occlusal v. deep 60% possibility RCT

Fuji IX used

19.3.07 Scale and clean prophylaxis

32 mesio-incisal chip; no LA; composite

9.9.07 37 DB tunnel IRM temp

Will need RCT

25.11.07 37 Ist RCT Dff 25, M ff 20 x 2, can only find one.

LA difficult. Ledermix + cavit

15.12.07 37 3 root canals converge in one. Cannot get further. Obstruction at ff 30 x 3 to

21mm. If OK, finish or if not, go further

20.12.07 36o, 37o; Fuji IX; no LA

25.2.08 Crown prep 37

17.3.08 Insert crown VMK 37

17.9.08 Patient complains: pain 37 region since insertion of VMK crown

Examined occlusion - nil loading
38 DOB Fuji composite

18.12.08 Pain 37 region persists

Remove VMK crown; re-insert IRM temp crown

6.3.10 Pain resolved with IRM crown; however, symptoms now returned; not tender to
percussion
X-ray: RCT 4mm short of apex; no periapical pathology

Refer to endodontist

TURN OVER 3
Writing task:

Using the information in the case notes, write a letter of referral to the endodontist, Dr Patrick O’Malley,
17 Longview Road, Newtown.
In your answer:

• expand the relevant notes into complete sentences

• do not use note form

• use letter format

The body of the letter should be approximately 180-200 words.

4
OCCUPATIONAL ENGLISH TEST
WRITING SUB-TEST: DENTISTRY
SAMPLE RESPONSE: LETTER

Dr Patrick O’Malley
17 Longview Road
Newtown

(Today’s date)

Dear Dr O’Malley

Re: Mrs Joyce Williams, DOB 9 May 1966

Thank you for seeing Mrs Joyce Williams, who is experiencing symptoms of pain associated with 37. On
examination, the tooth is not tender to percussion. Root canal treatment was performed on the tooth in November
2007. The RCT was difficult due to the three roots converging into one, and an obstruction was encountered. As a
result the root fillings are approximately 4mm short of the apex.

The tooth now has a temporary crown. A VMK crown was inserted in March 2008, but the patient reported
symptoms of pain from this time, which were not resolved by subsequent attention to cavities in the adjacent tooth,
38. The occlusion of 37 was also examined but was not found to be under any occlusal loading. Subsequently, the
VMK crown was removed and the IRM temporary crown re-inserted in December 2008. This appeared to resolve
the problem.

However, the patient is now complaining that the symptoms have returned. Another radiograph has been taken, but
no periapical pathology was found.

I would appreciate it if you could manage this case. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any further
information. I enclose the periapical radiograph of tooth 37.

Yours sincerely

Dentist

1
 Occupational English Test

WRITING SUB-TEST
Dietetics
Practice test

Please print in BLOCK LETTERS

Candidate number – –

Family name

Other name(s)

City

Date of test

Candidate’s signature

YOU MUST NOT REMOVE OET MATERIAL FROM THE TEST ROOM.

The OET Centre Telephone: +613 9652 0800

GPO Box 372 Facsimile: +613 9654 5329
Melbourne VIC 3001 [Link]
Australia

© OET Centre — Practice test ABN 84 434 201 642

OCCUPATIONAL ENGLISH TEST
WRITING SUB-TEST: DIETETICS
TIME ALLOWED: READING TIME: 5 MINUTES
WRITING TIME: 40 MINUTES
Read the case notes and complete the writing task which follows.

Notes:

Tim Langham was referred to you by his GP for dietary advice.

Patient: Mr Tim Langham

DOB: 1.8.1987

Presenting Complaint:
B12 deficiency 2o to pernicious anaemia
diagnosed by referring GP

History of Presenting Complaint:

Moody, irritable, withdrawn, mild depression, lethargy
Weight loss
Mother complains of his aggressive outbursts

Past Medical History:

Asthma, childhood onset
Chickenpox, 1992
Measles, 1996

Anthropometric Data:
Height: 180cm
Weight: 66kg
BMI: 20.4

Biochemical Data:
FBE
Hb* 118g/L (Ref range: 130-180g/L)
Serum iron 12µmol/L (Ref range: 10-30µmol/L)
Ferritin 30g/L (Ref range: 30-300g/L)
MCV 120fL (N: <98fL)
B12* 100µmol/L (Ref range: 120-680µmol/L)
RBC folate 980nmol/L (Ref range: 360-1,400nmol/L)
Serum folate 36 nmol/L (Ref range: 7-45nmol/L)
Medication:
B12 (1,000µg) IM injection, 2/week
Ventolin inhaler

TURN OVER 2
SH: Vegetarian for 7 years, doesn’t like eating eggs
University student; lives in shared house near university
Shares with 3 other students; all share cooking
No partner
Body-conscious, works out at gym 4-5 hours per day
Non-smoker; no recreational drug use
Social drinker (weekends – 2-3 drinks/night, wine or spirits)
Amino acid supplements

Dietary Information:
Breakfast: Special-K cereal with low-fat milk
Toast (white bread) with jam, honey, or peanut butter
Orange juice
Coffee
Morning tea: Wholemeal salad sandwich
Cola or sports drink
Lunch: Pasta with vegetarian sauce
Cake
Tea or coffee
Mid-afternoon: High protein cereal bar or high protein milk shake
Dinner: TV dinners/frozen dinners – soups, pasta with vegetarian sauce,
rice, potatoes
Ice-cream &/or tinned fruit/mousse
Supper: Dry biscuits with cheese or chocolate bar
Coffee

Management:
Advice given: vegetarian dietary sources of B12 – eggs, yoghurt, etc.
vegetarian sources of iron – e.g., legumes, green leafy vegetables, dried apricots, figs,
nuts combine with vitamin C-containing foods ( absorption)

Immediate plan: continue IM injection B12 (at GP surgery)

draw up dietary menu plan
recommend fresh food especially fruit & vegetables
R/v 2/52
Patient wishes to discontinue IM B12
Patient believes his diet is good – reluctant to change

Writing task:

Using the information in the case notes, write a letter back to the referring GP, Dr Bruce Russell, Health First
Clinic, 123 High Street, Newtown.

In your answer:

• expand the relevant notes into complete sentences

• do not use note form
• use letter format
The body of the letter should be approximately 180-200 words.

3
OCCUPATIONAL ENGLISH TEST
WRITING SUB-TEST: DIETITIAN
SAMPLE RESPONSE: LETTER

(Today’s date)

Dr Bruce Russell
Health First Clinic
123 High Street
Newtown

Dear Dr Russell

Re Tim Langham, DOB 1.8.1987

I am writing to you regarding your patient, Mr Tim Langham, who attended today for dietary advice.
As you know, he presents with symptoms and test results suggestive of pernicious anaemia, which
requires IM B12 treatment.

Tim is a vegetarian of seven years duration who has been suffering from weight loss, mood changes
such as irritability and depression, and aggressive behaviour. Blood tests reveal B12 deficiency. His
haemoglobin and B12 are low, red cells show an increased mean cell volume, and ferritin and serum
iron are at the low end of normal. His BMI is still within the normal range, despite his recent weight loss.

As his diet is deficient in vitamin B12 and obviously contains inadequate iron, I have advised Tim of
the need for continuing with IM injections of B12 to correct this problem, and given him advice on
the vegetarian dietary sources of B12 and iron. I suggested combining his iron-containing foods
with vitamin C-containing foods to enhance iron absorption. However, Tim is reluctant to make any
alterations to his diet, which he believes is good.

I will review him in two weeks, and have advised him to contact you regarding the B12 injections.

Thank you for your ongoing management of this patient.

Yours sincerely

Dietitian

1
 Occupational English Test

WRITING SUB-TEST
Medicine
Practice test

Please print in BLOCK LETTERS

Candidate number – –

Family name

Other name(s)

City

Date of test

Candidate’s signature

YOU MUST NOT REMOVE OET MATERIAL FROM THE TEST ROOM.

The OET Centre Telephone: +613 9652 0800

GPO Box 372 Facsimile: +613 9654 5329
Melbourne VIC 3001 [Link]
Australia

© OET Centre — Practice test ABN 84 434 201 642

OCCUPATIONAL ENGLISH TEST
WRITING SUB-TEST: MEDICINE
TIME ALLOWED: READING TIME: 5 MINUTES
WRITING TIME: 40 MINUTES

Read the case notes and complete the writing task which follows.

Notes:

Patient: Anne Hall (Ms)

DOB: 19.9.1965

Height: 163cm Weight: 75kg BMI: 28.2 (18/6/10)

Social History: Teacher (Secondary – History, English)

Divorced, 2 children at home (born 1994, 1996)

Non-smoker (since children born)

Social drinker – mainly spirits

Substance Intake: Nil

Allergies: Codeine; dust mites; sulphur dioxide

FHx: Mother – hypertension; asthmatic; Father – peptic ulcer

Maternal grandmother – died heart attack, aged 80

Maternal grandfather – died asthma attack

Paternal grandmother – unknown

Paternal grandfather – died ‘old age’ 94

PMHx: Childhood asthma; chickenpox; measles

1975 tonsillectomy

1982 hepatitis A (whole family infected)

1984 sebaceous cyst removed

1987 whiplash injury

1998 depression (separation from husband); SSRI – fluoxetine 11/12

2000 overweight – sought weight reduction

TURN OVER 2
 2002 URTI

2004 dyspepsia

2006 dermatitis; Rx oral & topical corticosteroids

18/6/10 PC: dysphagia (solids), onset 2/52 ago post viral(?) URTI

URTI self-medicated with OTC Chinese herbal product – contents unknown

No relapse/remittent course

No sensation of lump

No obvious anxiety

Concomitant epigastric pain radiating to back, level T12

Weight loss: 1-2kg

Recent increase in coffee consumption

Takes aspirin occasionally (2-3 times/month); no other NSAIDs

Provisional diagnosis: gastro-oesophageal reflux +/- stricture

Plan: Refer gastroenterologist for opinion and endoscopy if required

Writing task:

Using the information in the case notes, write a letter of referral for further investigation and definitive diagnosis to the
gastroenterologist, Dr Jason Roberts, at Newtown Hospital, 111 High Street, Newtown.

In your answer:

• expand the relevant notes into complete sentences

• do not use note form

• use letter format

The body of the letter should be approximately 180-200 words.

3
OCCUPATIONAL ENGLISH TEST
WRITING SUB-TEST: MEDICINE
SAMPLE RESPONSE: LETTER

Dr Jason Roberts
Newtown Hospital
111 High Street
Newtown

(Today’s date)

Dear Dr Roberts

Re: Ms Anne Hall, DOB 19.9.1965

Thank you for seeing Ms Hall, a 44-year-old secondary school teacher, who is presenting with a two-
week history of symptoms of dysphagia for solids, epigastric pain radiating posteriorly to T12 level, and
concomitant weight loss. The symptoms follow a constant course.

Ms Hall believes the problem commenced after an upper respiratory tract infection two weeks ago
for which she self-prescribed an over-the-counter Chinese herbal product with unknown ingredients.
However, she has also recently increased her coffee consumption and takes aspirin 2-3 times a month.
She has a history of dyspepsia (2004), and dermatitis for which she was prescribed oral and topical
cortisone. There are no apparent signs of anxiety. She has not smoked for the last 15 years. She drinks
socially (mainly spirits), has a family history of peptic ulcer disease and is allergic to codeine. Her BMI is
currently 28.2.

My provisional diagnosis at this point is gastro-oesophageal reflux with possible stricture. I am therefore
referring Ms Hall to you for further investigation.

Thank you for assessment and ongoing management of this woman. If you require any further
information, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Yours sincerely

Doctor

1
 Occupational English Test

WRITING SUB-TEST
Nursing
Practice test

Please print in BLOCK LETTERS

Candidate number – –

Family name

Other name(s)

City

Date of test

Candidate’s signature

YOU MUST NOT REMOVE OET MATERIAL FROM THE TEST ROOM.

The OET Centre Telephone: +613 9652 0800

GPO Box 372 Facsimile: +613 9654 5329
Melbourne VIC 3001 [Link]
Australia

© OET Centre — Practice test ABN 84 434 201 642

OCCUPATIONAL ENGLISH TEST
WRITING SUB-TEST: NURSING
TIME ALLOWED: READING TIME: 5 MINUTES
WRITING TIME: 40 MINUTES
Read the case notes and complete the writing task which follows.

Notes:

Mr Gerald Baker is a 79-year-old patient on the ward of a hospital in which you are Charge Nurse.

Patient Details:

Marital Status: Widower (8 years)

Admission Date: 3 September 2010 (City Hospital)

Discharge Date: 7 September 2010

Diagnosis: Left Total Hip Replacement (THR)

Ongoing high blood pressure

Social Background: Lives at Greywalls Nursing Home (GNH) (4 years)

No children

Employed as a radio engineer until retirement aged 65

Now aged-pensioner

Hobbies: chess, ham radio operator

Sister, Dawn Mason (66), visits regularly; v supportive

– plays chess with Mr Baker on her visits

No signs of dementia observed

Medical Background: 2008 – Osteoarthritis requiring total hip replacement surgery

1989 – Hypertension (ongoing management)

1985 – Colles fracture, ORIF

TURN OVER 2
Medications: Aspirin 100mg mane (recommenced post-operatively)

Ramipril 5mg mane

Panadeine Forte (co-codamol) 2 qid prn

Nursing Management and Progress:

daily dressings surgery incision site

Range of motion, stretching and strengthening exercises

Occupational therapy

Staples to be removed in two wks (21/9)

Also, follow-up FBE and UEC tests at City Hospital Clinic

Assessment: Good mobility post-operation

Weight-bearing with use of wheelie-walker; walks length of ward without difficulty

Post-operative disoriention re time and place during recovery, possibly relating to

anaesthetic – continued observation recommended

Dropped Hb post-operatively (to 72) requiring transfusion of 3 units packed red

blood cells; Hb stable (112) on discharge – ongoing monitoring required for anaemia

Discharge Plan: Monitor medications (Panadeine Forte)

Preserve skin integrity

Continue exercise program

Equipment required: wheelie-walker, wedge pillow, toilet raiser. Hospital to provide

walker and pillow. Hospital social worker organised 2-wk hire of raiser from local
medical supplier.

Writing task:

Using the information in the case notes, write a letter to Ms Samantha Bruin, Senior Nurse at Greywalls Nursing Home,
27 Station Road, Greywalls, who will be responsible for Mr Baker’s continued care at the Nursing Home.

In your answer:
• expand the relevant notes into complete sentences
• do not use note form
• use letter format
The body of the letter should be approximately 180-200 words.

3
OCCUPATIONAL ENGLISH TEST
WRITING SUB-TEST: NURSING
SAMPLE RESPONSE: LETTER

Ms Samantha Bruin
Senior Nurse
Greywalls Nursing Home
27 Station Road
Greywalls

(Today’s date)

Re: Mr Gerald Baker, aged 79

Dear Ms Bruin

Mr Baker is being discharged from City Hospital back into your care today. He underwent a left total hip
replacement. He has good mobility and can walk along the ward using a wheelie-walker without difficulty.

Mr Baker was recommenced on 100mg Aspirin daily post-operatively. In addition to his usual treatment
for hypertension, he requires pain relief (Panadeine Forte, max 8 tablets/day) and daily dressing changes.
He is to undergo a series of range-of-motion, stretching and strengthening exercises, and occupational
therapy, to ensure a full recovery. We are sending a walker and wedge pillow with the patient. Our social
worker has organised hire of a toilet raiser for two weeks.

During post-operative recovery Mr Baker appeared disoriented. As there is no record of dementia, this
may relate to the anaesthetic; continued observation is nevertheless recommended. His sister may be
able to comment. Mr Baker’s haemoglobin dropped post-operatively. He was transfused three units of
packed red blood cells, without complication, and his Hb on discharge is stable (112). Please monitor for
signs of anaemia.

Mr Baker will have his staples removed at City Hospital Clinic on 21 September. Follow-up blood tests
(UEC, FBE) will also be conducted.

Please contact me with any queries.

Yours sincerely

Charge Nurse

1
 Occupational English Test

WRITING SUB-TEST
Occupational Therapy
Practice test

Please print in BLOCK LETTERS

Candidate number – –

Family name

Other name(s)

City

Date of test

Candidate’s signature

YOU MUST NOT REMOVE OET MATERIAL FROM THE TEST ROOM.

The OET Centre Telephone: +613 9652 0800

GPO Box 372 Facsimile: +613 9654 5329
Melbourne VIC 3001 [Link]
Australia

© OET Centre — Practice test ABN 84 434 201 642

OCCUPATIONAL ENGLISH TEST
WRITING SUB-TEST: OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY
TIME ALLOWED: READING TIME: 5 MINUTES
WRITING TIME: 40 MINUTES
Read the case notes and complete the writing task which follows.

Notes:

You are an occupational therapist in Newtown. You have assessed and prepared a treatment plan with this
patient on referral from Dr Carol Smith.

Patient Details

Name: Melissa Godfrey (Ms)

DOB: 15/03/1972

Address: Flat 5, 18 Pine Street, Centreville

Marital Status: Separated from spouse

Occupation: Financial planner

Treating Doctor: Dr Carol Smith, Newtown

Moving to: Dr Simone Hadley, Centreville

Case Notes

Medical History:

Ms G has been off work (3 mths) with ongoing stress, anxiety & depression resulting from
inability to ‘switch off’ after work. This caused absenteeism & tardiness, frequent sick leave,
friction with colleagues, mistakes in work (picked up by clerk; no long-term repercussions
with clients).

Response to stress: short temper, lethargy, overeating (unhealthy diet).

Has had some counselling – achieved limited success. Still struggling to deal with stress &
anxiety, but now wishes to return to work.

Occupational Performance:

Self Care: Independent

Domestic: Independent but not cooking much; eating a lot of takeaway food.

TURN OVER 2
Leisure: Has worked long hours in past. Few hobbies. Watches TV, occasionally meets friends
for drinks.

Ms G used to play guitar; likes reading, but has had little time; enjoys cycling, but not
since splitting permanently last year with husband of 6 yrs. Has been on dates several
times but has no steady relationship currently.

Since moving to Newtown, away from her usual support networks in Centreville, Ms G less
involved with leisure activities.

Plan:

Develop coping strategies:

- work on set of affirmations/meditations to do at work when it becomes stressful

- re-engage with social network; return to hobbies & external interests

- encourage healthier diet

- liaise with employer to develop a return-to-work plan: start part-time, adjust workload, etc.
to make return easier

Schedule weekly visits to check progress.

Ms G has been staying with parents in Newtown during her leave from work, but is now returning
home to own apartment in Centreville. Would like to make more progress & get back to work.

Writing task:

The patient is transferring from Newtown back to Centreville. Write a letter to the patient’s new doctor in
Centreville. Use the information given in the case notes to outline for the doctor your plan for the patient’s
treatment and ongoing management of work and domestic issues. Address your letter to Dr Simone Hadley,
77 Main Street, Centreville.

In your answer:

• expand the relevant case notes into complete sentences

• do not use note form
• use letter format
The body of the letter should be approximately 180-200 words.

3
OCCUPATIONAL ENGLISH TEST
WRITING SUB-TEST: OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY
SAMPLE RESPONSE: LETTER

Dr Simone Hadley
77 Main Street
Centreville

(Today’s date)

Re: Ms Melissa Godfrey (DOB 15/03/1972)

Dear Dr Hadley,

As Melissa Godfrey is transferring to your care from her currrent treating doctor in Newtown, Dr Carol Smith, I
have assessed Ms Godfrey in Newtown and set out a plan for her to support a return to work.

Ms Godfrey is a financial planner who experienced difficulty switching off after work, leading to stress, anxiety
and depression. This affected her work and caused problems including absenteeism, sick leave and conflict with
colleagues and led to problems with temper, lethargy and overeating. The patient has been off work for three
months and staying with her parents in Newtown. She is permanently separated from her husband of six years
(since last year).

Coping strategies will help deal with her anxiety. She can resume activities she previously enjoyed, such as guitar
playing, reading and cycling. Group activities should help her to rebuild her social networks in Centreville. Ms
Godfrey needs support to address her diet and general health issues.

In relation to Ms Godfrey’s desire to return to work, I suggest working on a set of affirmations and meditations, so
that when she begins to feel anxious at work, she can break her stress response and stay calm. Liaison with her
employer is required to establish a return-to-work plan, starting with limited hours and a lighter workload.

I suggest weekly visits with an occupational therapist in Centreville to monitor her progress.

Please contact me if you require any further information.

Yours sincerely,

Occupational Therapist

1
 Occupational English Test

WRITING SUB-TEST
Optometry
Practice test

Please print in BLOCK LETTERS

Candidate number – –

Family name

Other name(s)

City

Date of test

Candidate’s signature

YOU MUST NOT REMOVE OET MATERIAL FROM THE TEST ROOM.

The OET Centre Telephone: +613 9652 0800

GPO Box 372 Facsimile: +613 9654 5329
Melbourne VIC 3001 [Link]
Australia

© OET Centre — Practice test ABN 84 434 201 642

OCCUPATIONAL ENGLISH TEST
WRITING SUB-TEST: OPTOMETRY
TIME ALLOWED: READING TIME: 5 MINUTES
WRITING TIME: 40 MINUTES
Read the case notes and complete the writing task which follows.

Notes:

Presentation: 31 September 2010

Patient history: Mr Andew Johnson: 46 y.o. taxi driver.

Double vision after about 11 hrs of driving, for 12 months.

Blurring of R eye, 8 months, becoming worse.

Lately, 1st letter of street signs absent.

No pain or headache.

General health: Good. No medication.

Family history: Father – cataracts for some yrs.

Vision: R 6/60+, L6/6

Refraction: R +0.25/-0.50 x 90, L +0.25 DS. No correction needed.

VA: R 6/60+, L 6/6, no improvement w. pinhole.

Phorias: Distance – 1Δ exophoria.

Near – 4Δ exophoria.

Stereopsis: Gross (Titmus fly).

Colour vision (D-15): R – red-green loss. L – normal.

External examination: Normal ocular appearance.

Eye movements: Full but jerky.

Convergence: Near point – 15cm.

Slit-lamp: Cornea and media – normal.

TURN OVER 2
IOP (Goldmann): R 18.5mmHg; L 14mmHg at 10.00am.

Confrontation fields: R – constricted.

L – temporal hemianopia.

Humphrey fields: R – temporal hemianopia w. some inferior nasal loss.

L – temporal hemianopia without macular sparing.

Diagnosis: Probable chiasmal lesion, possible pituitary tumour.

Plan: Referral to ophthalmologist.

Writing task:

Using the information given in the case notes, write a letter of referral to Dr R Taylor, an ophthalmologist at
Newtown Hospital.

In your answer:

• expand the relevant case notes into complete sentences

• do not use note form
• use letter format
The body of the letter should be approximately 180–200 words.

3
OCCUPATIONAL ENGLISH TEST
WRITING SUB-TEST: OPTOMETRY
SAMPLE RESPONSE: LETTER

(Today’s date)

Dr R Taylor
Ophthalmologist
Newtown Hospital
Newtown

Dear Dr Taylor,

Re: Mr A Johnson, aged 46 years

Mr Johnson presented on 31 September 2010 because of blurred vision in the right eye. This was first noticed
eight months ago and has become progressively worse since then. For the last 12 months, Mr Johnson has been
aware of double vision occurring after about 11 hours of driving. He is a taxi driver and recently, the first letter of
the name on street signs appears to him to be missing.

Mr Johnson vision is R 6/60+ and L 6/6, with no significant improvement with either spectacles or pinholes. Near
point of convergence is 15cm, eye movements are full but jerky and the right pupil is sluggish to a near stimulus.
Stereopsis is reduced to gross as measured with the Titmus fly. Colour vision assessed using the D-15 indicates a
red-green loss in the right eye only.

The cornea and media are clear. Intraocular pressures were R 18.5mmHg and L 14mmHg using Goldmann
tonometry at 10.00am, and the anterior chamber angles are wide (van Herick). The ocular fundi appear normal,
except that the right optic disc is paler than the left. Visual fields indicate a bitemporal hemianopic field loss
without macular sparing, with some additional loss in the inferior nasal field of the right eye (Humphrey charts
enclosed).

The reduced acuity, the other neurological signs, and particularly the bitemporal visual field loss may indicate
chiasmal involvement. Therefore, I am referring Mr Johnson to you for further assessment and management.

Yours sincerely

Optometrist

1
 Occupational English Test

WRITING SUB-TEST
Pharmacy
Practice test

Please print in BLOCK LETTERS

Candidate number – –

Family name

Other name(s)

City

Date of test

Candidate’s signature

YOU MUST NOT REMOVE OET MATERIAL FROM THE TEST ROOM.

The OET Centre Telephone: +613 9652 0800

GPO Box 372 Facsimile: +613 9654 5329
Melbourne VIC 3001 [Link]
Australia

© OET Centre — Practice test ABN 84 434 201 642

OCCUPATIONAL ENGLISH TEST
WRITING SUB-TEST: PHARMACY
TIME ALLOWED: READING TIME: 5 MINUTES
WRITING TIME: 40 MINUTES
Read the case notes and complete the writing task which follows.

Notes:

You are a pharmacist at Newtown Hospital. An elderly patient who has been treated for a fractured femur is being
discharged. You are writing a letter to her carer (her daughter) to ensure the medication regime is followed when she
returns home.

Patient History

Name: Mrs Alice Ramsey

Date of Birth: 4 January 1925

Allergies: Nil

Current Medication:

On Admission: Zantac (ranitidine) (for GORD): 150mg bd

Lipitor (atorvastatin): 20mg mane (on empty stomach)
On Discharge: Zantac (ranitidine) (for GORD): 150mg bd
Lipitor (atorvastatin): 20mg mane
Heparin low molecular weight (LMWH) (anti-coagulant): 7500 bd – to be continued until mobile
Panadeine Forte (paracetamol & codeine for pain relief): 500mg 4-hourly/prn
Durolax (to prevent constipation): 10mg nocte
Maxolon (metoclopramide) (for side effects of codeine): 10mg tds/prn
Penicillin (prophylactic: ↓ risk of post-op infection): 250mg qid 2/52

Drug Information: Adverse Drug Reactions

Ranitidine Adverse: headache; GI upset; rash; CNS disturbances (rare)

Atorvastatin Adverse: Serious: rhabdomyolysis, myopathy, myalgia (0.2%);

GI upset (1%); headache (2%); rash (2.5%);
flu-like symptoms (1.5%); raised LFTs (1.3%)

Heparin Adverse: haemorrhage, easy bruising, nausea, vomiting

Codeine/Paracetamol Adverse: constipation, stomach-aches, nausea, vomiting;

Rare: dependence, tolerance; CNS disturbances incl. impaired alertness

Metoclopramide Adverse: CNS disturbances incl. impaired alertness (rare); tardive dyskinesia (rare)

TURN OVER 2
Penicillin Adverse: Rare: sensitivity reactions; haematological effects; nausea, vomiting, mild diarrhoea;
allergic skin rash or hives

Social History:

Pt normally lives alone. On discharge, staying with daughter.

Pt non-driver. Public transport.

Relevant History for Surgical Procedure:

Height 168cm; Weight 75kg; BMI 26.8

Non-smoker

Dentures – upper & lower

Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) – controlled by medication

Hypercholesterolaemia – controlled by medication

11 July 2010

2:45pm: Pt brought to A&E by ambulance. Knocked down by car in Garden Nursery car park (buying
plants) – landed on bitumen. Driver failed to see her in rear-view mirror → reversed into her.
Not run over. Fell on R side on femur.

Presenting symptoms: pain – post fall & difficulty standing or walking

3.00pm: Pt seen by Dr Hogarth. Pain relief: pethidine (opiate)

X-rays of affected femur – anterior-posterior & lateral views

Repeat films with hip at 15-20° internal rotation → MRI

5:30pm: Transferred to ward

Pt booked for surgery 12 July am – nil by mouth from midnight

Full pre-operative general investigation: LFTs, platelet count, WBC count, WBC types,
RBC count, RBC indices, Hg, haematocrit, blood smear, ECG & chest X-ray

12 July 2010

Open reduction & internal fixation (ORIF) performed

GA given: induction – propofol; sevoflurane, fentanyl, midazolam, suxamethonium,

ondansetron

Heparin – thrombus prevention

IV antibiotics – penicillin – continued for 24/24 post surgery

Immobilised with spica cast

Post-Op

TURN OVER 3
 • pressure sore prevention & care of pressure areas; wound care

• pain relief

• fluid balance & blood loss monitoring: IV fluids + penicillin

• nutritional management: oral protein supplementation

• thrombus prevention: low dose, low molecular weight heparin, & mechanised compression
stockings

• lower limb circulation & sensation

• early mobilisation & weight bearing on injured leg

24 July 2010 Transferred to Rehab Unit

8 August 2010

Due for discharge home – appointment made for 22 August 2010 for removal of cast
Letter to carer/daughter (NB: heparin to be continued only until mobile)

The patient is being discharged to the care of her daughter.

Writing task:

Using the information in the case notes, write a letter to the daughter, Mrs Holly Kerr, 3 Rose Avenue, Springbank,
outlining her mother’s medication regime, any potential adverse effects to be aware of, and when to seek medical
advice.

In your answer:

• expand the relevant notes into complete sentences

• do not use note form

• use letter format

The body of the letter should be approximately 180-200 words.

4
OCCUPATIONAL ENGLISH TEST
WRITING SUB-TEST: PHARMACY
SAMPLE RESPONSE: LETTER

Mrs Holly Kerr

3 Rose Avenue
Springbank

(Today’s date)

Dear Mrs Kerr

Your mother, Mrs Alice Ramsey, is now being transferred into your care following her operation and it is important that
you ensure her medications are taken correctly.

On admission, she was already using an anti-ulcer drug, ranitidine (Zantac), twice daily to control her acid reflux, and
a cholesterol-lowering medication, Lipitor, one tablet on an empty stomach. The main side effects to be aware of
with Zantac are stomach upsets, headaches and skin rash. The most serious reaction to Lipitor is muscle pain; any
occurrence should be reported to her doctor.

Since hospitalisation, she has been prescribed several additional medications. Panadeine Forte for pain relief, is to be
taken as required (not more than every four hours). It can cause stomach-ache, constipation, nausea and vomiting and
drowsiness/sedation. To counteract any nausea, Maxolon (metoclopramide) can be taken up to three times daily as
needed. The penicillin (four times daily) is to prevent any infections, while a blood-thinning medication called heparin will
prevent clot formation due to the surgery or immobility. This is to be continued while your mother is immobile, and you
will need to be alert for possible bleeding or bruising. If this occurs, you should seek medical advice from your doctor or
community nurse.

I hope you find this information helpful. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions.

Yours sincerely

Hospital Pharmacist

1
 Occupational English Test

WRITING SUB-TEST
Physiotherapy
Practice test

Please print in BLOCK LETTERS

Candidate number – –

Family name

Other name(s)

City

Date of test

Candidate’s signature

YOU MUST NOT REMOVE OET MATERIAL FROM THE TEST ROOM.

The OET Centre Telephone: +613 9652 0800

GPO Box 372 Facsimile: +613 9654 5329
Melbourne VIC 3001 [Link]
Australia

© OET Centre — Practice test ABN 84 434 201 642

OCCUPATIONAL ENGLISH TEST
WRITING SUB-TEST: PHYSIOTHERAPY
TIME ALLOWED: READING TIME: 5 MINUTES
WRITING TIME: 40 MINUTES
Read the case notes and complete the writing task which follows.

Notes:

You are a physiotherapist in private practice. Max Wolff has been referred to you by his GP, Dr William Stacey, for review
and a treatment plan after presenting with chronic back pain.

Physiotherapy Notes – from initial consultation 1 May 2010

Personal Details:
Name: Max Wolff (Mr)
Age: 35
Profession: Full-time musician: orchestral double bass player
Lives with spouse, also a musician
No dependants

Family/Patient History:
Father (70) has mild osteoarthritis; mother (67) healthy
Younger brother & sister healthy
Tonsillectomy/adenoidectomy (1979)
Myopic (corrective lenses since age 14)
Non-smoker; ‘social’ drinker (8-10 units/week)
Mild idiopathic scoliosis (<20º, untreated) since teenage years: slouching at desk while
studying at school & music college
Minor, ongoing postural problems from music college to present: daily work routine
(practising, attending rehearsals & performing with orchestra); pain not a problem
until recently
Little formal exercise (no sports, no gym); busy schedule, with frequent evening work

Subjective: Pt complains of ongoing upper back pain – feels stiff, ‘frozen’, ‘locked’ between shoulders;
also dull pain in lumbar region
Agg: prolonged performance on instrument (>2 hrs); ease: rest

Symptoms developing over last 6-10 months; pt too busy at work to attend GP; has been using non-
prescription analgesics lately for relief (to help with sleep, esp. after evening performances)

TURN OVER 2
 Bass playing requires particular body posture – pt normally sits on high stool with body weight mainly
on R leg; L arm is bent & raised up to near pt’s ear on instrument, R arm reaches forward to produce
sound with bow. Unbalanced posture.
Pt concerned that current symptoms may prevent participation in important international
tour with orchestra (for 1 month, leaving in 3 weeks) – this was trigger to attend GP.
Also aware, however, of need to find & treat cause of current symptoms to maintain long-
term health & continued capacity to perform (= earn).

Physical Examination Findings:

Standing posture – mild thoracic kyphosis with protraction of both scapulae & forward head posture.
Average build with lax abdominal muscles.
Flexion in standing – fingertips 10cm below knees, mild scoliosis convex on right.
Extension in standing – stiff ++
Side flexion in standing – fingertips to knee on left – complains of right lumbar tightness; fingertips 5cm
above knee on right with stiff segment T3-T8.
Spinal rotation in sitting – stiff end of range to left but range normal. Pain reproduced with
overpressure; ¾ range to right – stiff segment T3-T8.
Palpation – increased tone & tenderness left erector spinae T6-T8 & right erector spinae L2-L4. Stiff PA
central & right unilateral T3-T8.

Treatment Plan:
Posture training including cross-tape to mid thoracic spine to promote postural awareness & self-
correction of forward posture.
Soft tissue releases left erector spinae T6-T8 & right erector spinae L2-L4.
Spinal mobilisation T3-T8 to increase extension & right rotation.
Home exercises: Right side flexion in sitting bringing left arm over head; right rotation in sitting with
hands behind neck, elbows forward – eight repetitions of each exercise with 10 second stretch at end
of range – repeat four times each day.
Review twice each week until departure – introduce strength exercises & self-massage using tennis
ball at next session. Advised patient that problem is not acute – should be able to participate in tour
but will need to exercise, do self massage & use tape for posture while away.

Writing task:

Using the information in the notes, write a letter back to the referring GP detailing your findings and suggested
treatment plan. Address your letter to Dr William Stacey, Greywalls Clinic, 23 Station Road, Greywalls.

In your answer:
• expand the relevant notes into complete sentences
• do not use note form
• use letter format
The body of the letter should be approximately 180-200 words.

3
OCCUPATIONAL ENGLISH TEST
WRITING SUB-TEST: PHYSIOTHERAPY
SAMPLE RESPONSE: LETTER

Dr William Stacey
Greywalls Clinic
23 Station Road
Greywalls

(Today’s date)

Dear Dr Stacey,
Re: Max Wolff – aged 35
Thank you for referring your patient, Mr Max Wolff, to me for review and a treatment plan. He attended my office
yesterday.
As you know, Mr Wolff is an orchestral double bass player by profession. He reports upper back pain between
his shoulders that is aggravated by prolonged performance on the instrument (over two hours) and eased by rest.
He also has dull pain in his lumbar spine. The symptoms have been developing for 6-10 months and Mr Wolff has
recently been using low-strength analgesics to help him sleep.
On examination, there is mild thoracic kyphosis with protraction of both scapulae and forward head posture. Mild
scoliosis is evident on the patient’s right side with lumbar tightness (stiff segment T3-T8) and 3/4 range spinal
rotation.
I initiated posture training and spinal mobilisation and have started the patient on home exercises involving
rotation and stretching. Mr Wolff will have twice-weekly sessions for three weeks until the start of the concert tour
and I will introduce strength exercises and self massage at our next session.
Mr Wolff will need to continue his treatment routine while away, but will be able to participate in the tour.
Please contact me for any further information.

Yours sincerely

Physiotherapist

1
 Occupational English Test
Writing sub-test
Podiatry
Practice test

Please print in BLOCK LETTERS

Candidate number – –

Family name

Other name(s)

City

Date of test

Candidate’s signature

YOU MUST NOT REMOVE OET MATERIAL FROM THE TEST ROOM.

The OET Centre Telephone: +613 9652 0800

GPO Box 372 Facsimile: +613 9654 5329
Melbourne VIC 3001 [Link]
Australia

© OET Centre — Practice test ABN 84 434 201 642

OCCUPATIONAL ENGLISH TEST
WRITING SUB-TEST: PODIATRY
TIME ALLOWED: READING TIME: 5 MINUTES
WRITING TIME: 40 MINUTES
Read the case notes and complete the writing task which follows.

Notes:

You are attending to a dancer’s toe nails after a number of recurring attempts to relieve trouble from an
ingrown toe nail.

Clinic: Podiatry Clinic

Name: Jennifer Dupont
Marital status: Single
Residence: 14 Powell Drive
Newtown
Date of Birth: January 10, 1990
Examination date: September 4, 2010
Diagnosis: Recurring onychocryptosis (ingrown toenail) R/ hallux
Past Medical History: Appendicectomy 1998
Father - ingrown toe nail problems for yrs.
Ingrown toe nail – treated with success 2005
L sore - not ingrown 2006
Infected R toe given anti-biotic powder 2007
R toe nail still sore, purulent discharge – resting from dance 2008
Toe been good for more than 1 yr now very red, inflamed & green
discharge 2010.
Social background: Migrated France -> Australia 1999 with parents.
Elite dancer. Lives at home with parents between travelling on dance
tours.

Medical History Chronic badly infected R hallux for 5 yrs. Attended many times &
treated with betadine antiseptic liquid and oral antibiotics.

TURN OVER 2
Treatment record/Case notes:

1/08/09 Presented for routine nail treatment

Strongly recommended that podiatrist attends nail care as the patient has an
involuted nail shape and poor cutting techniques has lead to recurring problems.

6/12/09 L / hallux - good. Hypergranulation of R /hallux red - no evidence of infection.

Cut own toe nails in a hurry before a dance recently. Superficial skin damage
~8mm to R/1
Busy schedule over next month - cannot rest.

4/09/10
On examination: R/1 Extremely painful with exudate
Daily soaks in Epsom salts and dressings by district nurse /family
member with betadine and mefix / hypafix
Currently resting. Reviewed by doctor whilst on tour recently. Oral
antibiotics cephalexin (Keflex) (1rpt)
R/1 treated, nail spike removed and dressing applied
To attend clinic once/week.
Wants something done about the recurring problem.
Discussed options including wedge resection with phenolisation,
though not during infective stage. Need plenty of time off from
dancing. Explained healing post procedure.
For referral to Local GP.

Writing task:

Using the information given in the case notes, write a letter of referral to the local doctor, Dr Ray
Brooks, 3 Brougham Road, Lakeside suggesting that Jennifer be reviewed for possible wedge
resection of her right large toe.

In your answer:
• Expand the relevant notes into complete sentences
• Do not use note form
• Use letter format

The body of the letter should be approximately 180 - 200 words.

3
OCCUPATIONAL ENGLISH TEST
WRITING SUB-TEST: PODIATRY
SAMPLE RESPONSE: LETTER

Dr Ray Brooks
3 Brougham Road
Lakeside

(Today’s date)

Dear Dr Brooks,

RE: Ms Jennifer Dupont

14 Powell Drive
Newton

DOB 10/1/1990

Thank you for reviewing Jennifer Dupont, an elite dancer with chronic onychocryptosis in her right hallux.
Her left toe is less problematic. Jennifer’s medical history is uneventful but her father has had numerous
ingrown toe nails. Jennifer has attended this clinic since 2005 with varied success for infections.

Her attendance to the clinic has been irregular, despite my advice. Due to heavy schedules she recently cut
her own nails and caused further superficial soft tissue damage (~8mm). I have seen her three times since
August 2009. Her current regime includes daily soaks in Epsom salts, regular dressings with betadine liquid
and mefix. Recently, whilst on tour she required oral Keflex (cephalexin) from a local doctor.

I explained that due to her ongoing problems and infrequency of visits for regular treatment, the best
treatment option is a wedge resection. With proper phenolisation she should be problem free in the future.
I also explained that the infection must first be treated with antiobiotics before the procedure can be
undertaken. Jennifer is likely to require 2-3 weeks of rest for the toe to heal.

I would appreciate an assessment of Jennifer to determine if further antiobiotics are required and if a wedge
resection would be an appropriate treatment path.

Sincerely,

Podiatrist.

1
 Occupational English Test

WRITING SUB-TEST
Radiography
Practice test

Please print in BLOCK LETTERS

Candidate number – –

Family name

Other name(s)

City

Date of test

Candidate’s signature

YOU MUST NOT REMOVE OET MATERIAL FROM THE TEST ROOM.

The OET Centre Telephone: +613 9652 0800

GPO Box 372 Facsimile: +613 9654 5329
Melbourne VIC 3001 [Link]
Australia

© OET Centre — Practice test ABN 84 434 201 642

OCCUPATIONAL ENGLISH TEST
WRITING SUB-TEST: RADIOGRAPHY
TIME ALLOWED: READING TIME: 5 MINUTES
WRITING TIME: 40 MINUTES
Read the case notes and complete the writing task which follows.

Notes:

6/9/10

Radiographer in Charge
City Hospital
Newtown

Dear Radiographer

I am writing to express my concern at a patient of mine not having a chest X-ray prior to surgery.

On the morning of 4/9/10, I personally delivered the request form to the X-ray Department and indicated it
needed to be done on the same day, as the patient was for theatre on the morning of 5/9/10 (yesterday).
However, for some reason, the patient – Mr Peter Billings – did not have the X-ray, and consequently the
operation was done without the aid of a recent chest X-ray.

Although Mr Billings has suffered no ill effects from this, I am concerned that the X-ray was not done as
requested, particularly as I made an effort to ensure that it was. I would ask that you investigate this matter in the
hope that a similar situation does not arise in future.

Yours faithfully,

Dr Tony Milne
Surgical Registrar

RADIOLOGY REQUEST FORM

Pt. Mr Peter Billings No. 124326

Wd. 7
Date 4/9/10

CXR — Pre op.

Pt for theatre 5/3.
Dr Milne, Surgical Reg

TURN OVER 2
PATIENT TRANSPORT LOG DATE 4/9/10 PM
Time Name Ward Travel Comments
12.00 Estella 9 Trolley
12.15 Nguyen 2 W/chair No films on Wd
12.30 Jones 6 Walk
12.45 Simms 2 W/chair Go to Path. after X-ray
1.00 Billings 7 W/chair Dr with pt – try later
1.15 Syme 8 Trolley O2
1.30 Alrabiah 1 Walk
1.45 Rouse 10 Trolley Too sick to come down
2.00 Courtney 5 Walk
2.30 Lamb 9 W/chair O2
2.45 Aitken 1 Trolley I.V. Films back with patient
3.15 Billings 7 W/chair Pt not on ward – having test
3.30 Singh 2 Bed In traction
4.00 Fry 6 W/chair
4.15 Lui ICU Bed
4.30 Tonkin 1 Walk
5.00 McBean 1 Trolley
5.30 Johnson 5 W/chair I.V.
6.00 Billings 7 W/chair Now needs Trolley – try later!
7.00 Xu 9 Trolley To Wd 6 after X-ray
7.30
8.30 Lee ICU Bed
9.00 Jenson 2 Trolley O2 No films on Wd
9.15
9.30 Billings 7 Trolley Too late – nurses wouldn’t let patient down &
said OK to do 5/9 am, as pt for theatre in pm.

END OF SHIFT

Writing task:

Using the information given in the transport log and the request form, write a letter of explanation in response to Dr
Milne’s complaint.

Address the letter to Dr Tony Milne, Surgical Registrar, City Hospital, Newtown.

In your answer:

• expand the relevant notes into complete sentences

• do not use note form

• use letter format

The body of the letter should be approximately 180-200 words.

3
OCCUPATIONAL ENGLISH TEST
WRITING SUB-TEST: RADIOGRAPHY
SAMPLE ANSWER: LETTER

(Today’s date)

Dr Tony Milne
Surgical Registrar
City Hospital
Newtown

Dear Dr Milne,

Thank you for your letter regarding Mr Peter Billings’ pre-operative chest X-ray.

It appears that we attempted on four separate occasions to do Mr Billings’ chest X-ray, between 1pm and
9.30pm on 4/9/10, but for a variety of reasons we were unable to get him down from the ward to the X-ray
Department. Mr Billings was undergoing tests and consultation when we first attempted to transport him down.
On our last attempt, we were sent away as it was too late in the evening. We were informed by the nursing staff
that Mr Billings was scheduled for theatre in the afternoon of 5/9/10 and that we could therefore do the chest
X-ray in the morning.

Unfortunately, there was no indication on your request form as to what time the operation was to be done; hence,
we acted on the information given to us by the ward. Perhaps in future you could be more specific regarding the
patient’s operation schedule and also ensure that the ward staff have accurate information.

Yours sincerely

Radiographer

1
 Occupational English Test

WRITING SUB-TEST
Speech Pathology
Practice test

Please print in BLOCK LETTERS

Candidate number – –

Family name

Other name(s)

City

Date of test

Candidate’s signature

YOU MUST NOT REMOVE OET MATERIAL FROM THE TEST ROOM.

The OET Centre Telephone: +613 9652 0800

GPO Box 372 Facsimile: +613 9654 5329
Melbourne VIC 3001 [Link]
Australia

© OET Centre — Practice test ABN 84 434 201 642

OCCUPATIONAL ENGLISH TEST
WRITING SUB-TEST: SPEECH PATHOLOGY
TIME ALLOWED: READING TIME: 5 MINUTES
WRITING TIME: 40 MINUTES
Read the case notes and complete the writing task which follows.

Notes:

You are a speech pathologist in private practice. This patient was referred to you by an ENT surgeon, Ms Anne
Werrall, for assessment and treatment, and you have now completed three months of regular treatment sessions
with the patient.

Name Jana Pelovic (Ms)

DOB 24/11/1975

Diagnosis Intermittent dysphonia caused by vocal fold nodules

Medical Hx

Frequent URTIs (upper respiratory tract infections), especially in winter

Allergic to nuts

Asthmatic (since childhood, 5 yrs old)

Active & fit (plays competitive netball)

Voice has been slowly deteriorating (i.e., becoming increasingly hoarse) over past 2-3 years

Social Hx

Beginning teacher (qualified last year) – full time position; finds work stressful (heavy workload, difficulties with
classroom management)

Difficult separation from husband (18 mths ago); now lives with two children

Fit, smoker, good diet, normal weight (BMI 23)

Outgoing personality, sociable, speaks loudly, dominant in conversation (describes self as ‘loud’)

SP Initial Ax Results (2/12/09)

Voice profile indicates moderate roughness & breathiness with mild strain, phonation breaks, mildly low mean pitch,
mildly loud volume

Pt reports sensory changes characterised by dryness, fatigue & use of effort required to talk

Pt reports reduced pitch range especially in upper register; pitch & phonation breaks in singing

Videostroboscopic analysis shows thickened epithelium & bilateral thickened superficial lamina propria at the
midpoint, which impedes normal voicing; nodules appear soft & benign

Stroboscopic view of moving vocal folds shows motion inhibited by the masses

TURN OVER 2
Other influencing factors

Smoking & regular URTIs may exacerbate occupational vocal abuse

Anxiety, stress & conflict relating to marriage breakdown perhaps contribute to development of vocal nodules (through
bodily physical tension)

Progress

Voice therapy Tx focus

1. facilitate normal voice production, e.g., reduce volume and effort required, use of optimal pitch, use of
diaphragmatic breathing, optimal posture and resonance

2. manage vocal abuse, teach ‘yell well’ technique, reduce/eliminate throat clearing, facilitate cessation of
smoking

3. implement vocal hygiene, e.g., increase water intake, steaming, use of vocal rest and reduction of vocal load

Tx duration: regular sessions over estimated 3-6/12

Reassessment recommended at 3/12

After 3 months (6/3/10)

Good compliance by pt; voice normal, no sensory symptoms reported; cessation of smoking; regular use of voice
techniques

Review in 3/12

Writing task:

Write a letter to the referring ENT surgeon, Ms Anne Werrall, Ear, Nose and Throat Surgeon, City Hospital, Main Street,
Newtown, outlining assessment recommendations, treatment results and recommended follow-up treatment.

In your answer:

• expand the relevant case notes into complete sentences

• do not use note form
• use letter format
The body of the letter should be approximately 180-200 words.

3
OCCUPATIONAL ENGLISH TEST
WRITING SUB-TEST: SPEECH PATHOLOGY
SAMPLE RESPONSE: LETTER

(Today’s date)

Ms Anne Werrall
Ear, Nose and Throat Surgeon
City Hospital
Main Street
Newtown

Dear Ms Werrall,

Ms Jana Pelovic DOB 24/11/75

Thank you for referring Ms Jana Pelovic to me for assessment and treatment of intermittent dysphonia due to
bilateral vocal nodules.

Initial assessment results on 2/12/09 showed perceptual changes (moderate roughness and breathiness,
phonation breaks, mildly low pitch and mildly loud volume) and reported sensory changes. Ms Pelovic is
a recently qualified teacher and professional voice use may have contributed to the dysphonia. Another
contributing factor might be recent stressful events (a marriage breakdown 18 months ago) and poor
management of the associated stress. A history of smoking and frequent URTIs may well also exacerbate the
problem.

Speech pathology aimed to facilitate normal voice production, eliminate or reduce vocal abuse, and provide
voice education. This included increased fluid intake, reduction of vocal load, cessation of smoking, use of
optimal pitch in speech, and stress management techniques.

Ms Pelovic was committed to her three-month program of therapy and has stopped smoking. Her voice is
now normal and no sensory abnormalities are reported. A review in three months is recommended to ensure
maintenance of Ms Pelovic’s vocal health.

Yours sincerely

Speech Pathologist

1
 Occupational English Test

WRITING SUB-TEST
Veterinary Science
Practice test

Please print in BLOCK LETTERS

Candidate number – –

Family name

Other name(s)

City

Date of test

Candidate’s signature

YOU MUST NOT REMOVE OET MATERIAL FROM THE TEST ROOM.

The OET Centre Telephone: +613 9652 0800

GPO Box 372 Facsimile: +613 9654 5329
Melbourne VIC 3001 [Link]
Australia

© OET Centre — Practice test ABN 84 434 201 642

OCCUPATIONAL ENGLISH TEST
WRITING SUB-TEST: VETERINARY SCIENCE
TIME ALLOWED: READING TIME: 5 MINUTES
WRITING TIME: 40 MINUTES
Read the case notes and complete the writing task which follows.

Notes:

Date: 23 July 2010

Owner: Mrs Martina Schmidt
Patient: ‘Lulu’ – 18-year-old poodle cross, spayed female
*Care* unpredictable behaviour – anxious & can bite when frightened
DOB: April 1991
History:
18/6/03 Vaccination given (C5).
Owner reports dog ‘slowing down’, sleeping more, with moderate cough (getting
worse & more frequent), less energy during walks than before (now have to
be shorter).
Clinical examination – cardiac auscultation suggests provisional diagnosis: congestive
heart failure (CHF). Recommended tests to confirm: haemogram, biochemical
profile, urinalysis (U/A), thoracic X-rays, ECG.

23/6/03 Haemogram, biochemical profile, U/A, thoracic X-rays, ECG. Test results confirm
provisional diagnosis: ++CHF.
Treatment: medication – benazepril hydrochloride (½ tab daily).
Also regular walks, good diet, maintain healthy weight.

25/8/04 Dog well, bright & alert. Coat glossy. Body weight (BW): 10kg. Vaccination given (C5).
CHF treatment continuing.

3/8/05 Bright & alert. BW: 9.5kg. Heart rate: 90bpm. Managing 1-hour walk daily. Good muscle
tone. Vaccination (C5). Continue CHF treatment regime.

10/7/06 Dog well, responsive. BW 9.5kg. CHF treatment ongoing. Vaccination (C5).
Heart rate: 88bpm.

26/5/07 Check-up. Bright & responsive. Heart rate: 85bpm. Lungs clear. Muscle tone good.
Heartworm prevention. Vaccination (C5).

24/6/09 Bright & alert. BW: 9.0kg. Vaccination (C5). Heart rate 80bpm. Lungs clear.

TURN OVER 2
10/7/10 Owner reports Lulu seems depressed, sleeping more, slow sitting down & reluctant
to get up, reduced interaction with family & other dogs, ‘shivering’, periodic retching,
urinary incontinence. Coat dull. BW: 8.5kg. Heart rate: 81bpm. Vaccination (C5).
Provisional diagnosis: chronic renal insufficiency/chronic renal failure. Recommended
tests: U/A, haemogram, biochemical profile. Owner doesn’t want dog euthanased.

17/7/10 Tests: U/A, haemogram, biochemical profile; observation.

Clinical findings: provisional diagnosis confirmed: ++chronic renal insufficiency (CRI);
++CHF; osteoarthritis (OA).

Care Notes
For CRI – low protein diet (commercial or homemade – recipes available) to reduce
load on kidneys. Fresh water daily.
For CHF – daily walk, adequate (varied) diet.
For OA – warm bedding & sleeping place, ? dog coat (for warmth), daily exercise (not
too long/difficult).

Medications
For CHF: benazepril hydrochloride – ½ tab daily (ongoing).
For OA: carprofen injection – 1x wkly for 4 wks, then mthly (ongoing); chondroitin
sulfate (Cosequin DS) – one capsule daily, sprinkled over food.
For urinary incontinence: phenylpropanolamine (Propalin Syrup) – 0.25ml 2x daily on
food (calibrated syringe provided to measure dosage).

Writing task:

Write a letter to the dog’s owner outlining your diagnosis of Lulu’s illnesses and appropriate instructions for care
at home. Address your letter to: Mrs M Schmidt, 21 High Street, Newtown.

In your answer:
• expand the relevant notes into complete sentences
• do not use note form
• use letter format
The body of the letter should be approximately 180-200 words.

3
OCCUPATIONAL ENGLISH TEST
WRITING SUB-TEST: VETERINARY SCIENCE
SAMPLE RESPONSE: LETTER

Mrs M Schmidt
21 High Street
Newtown

(Today’s date)

Dear Mrs Schmidt,

Re: Lulu – female poodle cross, aged 19

The results of the tests performed on Lulu yesterday confirm that she has chronic renal insufficiency. This is in
addition to the heart condition first diagnosed six years ago. Lulu is also suffering from osteoarthritis.

Lulu should have access to fresh water every day, and should be given a diet low in protein to reduce the load on
her kidneys. We can recommend suitable commercial food for Lulu or provide recipes for appropriate homemade
food. Her urinary incontinence can be treated with phenylpropanolamine (0.25ml twice a day on food).

You should continue to give Lulu benazepril hydrochloride for her heart (half a tablet each day), maintain a varied
diet and keep up the daily walks, as this is good for Lulu’s heart. Note, however, that the exercise should not
be too long or difficult for her because of the arthritis. Lulu needs a warm place to sleep, appropriate bedding,
and possibly a dog coat to help her feel more comfortable, given this condition. A series of carprofen injections
(starting weekly for four weeks and thereafter monthly) would help; you could also give chondroitin sulfate
(Cosequin DS) for this – one capsule daily sprinkled over food.

Please do not hesitate to call if you have any questions or concerns.

Yours sincerely

Veterinarian