Cancer

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. Patient’s 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.

PATIENT’s 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

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You are very happy about the Doctor informing the hospital chaplain