ADA Guideline for infection control

8/7/2019 ADA Guideline for infection control

1/88

visit... www.oet.com.au

Candidate Information

& Sample Materials


2/88

Copyright CAE.

This work is copyright. Apart from any use permitted under the

Copyright Act 1968, no part may be reproduced by any process

without prior written permission from CAE. November 2004.


3/88

Contents

Background 5

Sample test information 9

Subtest Reading 11

Part A 13

Part B 18

Subtest Listening 23

Part A 25

Part B 29

Subtest Writing 33

Dentists 34

Dietitians 36

Doctors 38

Nurses 40

Occupational Therapists 41

Pharmacists 43

Physiotherapists 46

Podiatrists 48

Radiographers 49

Speech Pathologists 52

Veterinarians 54

Subtest Speaking 57

Dentists 59Dietitians 60

Doctors 61

Nurses 62

Occupational Therapists 63

Pharmacists 64

Physiotherapists 65

Podiatrists 66

Radiographers 67

Speech Pathologists 68

Veterinarians 69

Answers 71


4/88


5/88

Background

OET CANDIDATE INFORMATION & SAMPLE MATERIALS 5

What is the OET?

The Occupational English Test (OET) is a language test for overseas qualied medical and health professionals whose

rst language is not English. It assesses English language prociency as it is used in medical and health professions

in Australia. The OET is owned and administered by CAE. CAE is responsible for the management of all assessment

processes related to the delivery of the OET.

The Australian Government requires that medical and health professionals from non-English speaking backgrounds

wishing to study, work and/or migrate to Australia obtain a successful result in the OET. The OET is designed to

ensure that those working or studying in medical or health professions have an adequate command of English to use

and communicate in English with condence in professional situations.

Which professions does the OET cover?

OET covers the following:

Chiropractors Pharmacists

Dentists Physiotherapists

Dietitians Podiatrists

Doctors Radiographers

Nurses Speech Pathologists

Occupational Therapists Veterinarians.

Optometrists

What does the OET assess?

The OET assesses:

Reading Writing

Listening Speaking.

There is a separate subtest for each of these skill areas. The Reading and Listening subtests are designed to assess

the ability to understand written and spoken English related to health and medicine. The subtests for Reading and

Listening are not specic to a health profession. The Speaking and Writing subtests are specic to each profession

and are designed to assess the ability to produce English in professional contexts.

The OET does not attempt to assess professional knowledge.

Reading

This subtest is not specic to a profession. It takes 60 minutes.

For this subtest candidates are required to read two articles about health related issues and answer questions which

test comprehension of written English. The questions are multiple choice and candidates record their answers on acomputer sheet.


6/88

6 OET CANDIDATE INFORMATION & SAMPLE MATERIALS

Listening

The listening subtest is not specic to a profession. The duration of the test is approximately 60 minutes.

For this subtest candidates listen to an audio tape about two health related issues and answer questions which havebeen formulated to test comprehension of spoken English. Candidates are required to write answers in an answer

booklet while the tape is being played. There are pauses in the tape to allow time to write the answers.

Writing

The writing subtest is specic to each profession. Candidates are allowed 40 minutes for this subtest. An extra 5

minutes is allowed as reading time.

For this subtest candidates write a letter of referral, transfer or advice based on case notes. Candidates are required

to write approximately 200 words using the correct layout.

Speaking

This subtest is specic to each profession. It takes approximately 20 minutes.

For this subtest candidates must participate in two role plays related to their profession. All role plays are recorded

on audio tape. Another person will take the role of a patient or client.

More information about the subtests can be found in the sections relating to each subtest.

Test materials and conditions

The development of examination materials, assessment criteria and processes are researched, developed, trialled

and reviewed by qualied professional test developers who have a world-wide reputation for their work in the eld of

language testing and research.

All test materials are condential and the test is administered under conditions of strict security. All candidates are

required to show proof of identity, with a photograph and signature check on the test day.

Where is the OET conducted?

The OET is conducted in all capital cities in Australia and in some other major cities, depending on numbers enrolled

in each test.

Overseas the OET can be conducted in approximately 50 different locations. Venues are determined by the number

of candidates.

Who assesses the OET?

The Reading subtest is marked by computer at the University of New South Wales (NSW), Australia.

The other subtests are assessed by qualied and experienced assessors of English who have been trained in OET

assessment procedures.


7/88


How is the OET assessed?

All examination material is returned to the OET Assessment Unit at CAE for assessment in the following manner:

Reading: analysed by computer at the University of NSWListening: assessed in Melbourne. A random selection of 10% of candidate responses are double marked

Writing: assessed in Melbourne. All papers are double marked*

Speaking: usually assessed in Melbourne. Some candidates are assessed by interlocutors/assessors at the time

of the test. All candidate responses are double marked.*

* A percentage of papers are triple marked

How are OET results reported?

Test results for each skill area are reported on a ve point scale from A to E with A being the highest score.

Results are posted 5 6 weeks after the tests in Australia, and 6 8 weeks after the tests are held overseas.

Gaining feedback

Candidates may request a written report against the assessment criteria for subtest results in Writing, Speaking

and Listening. There is a cost for this service. Information about the costs and the Qualitative FeedbackForm are

available on the OET website (www.oet.com.au).

What is a satisfactory result?

Candidates must receive a satisfactory result in all four subtests.Most Medical/Health Councils require candidates to achieve an A or B result in all four sections of the test.

However, each Medical / Health Council has different requirements which may change from time to time.

Candidates must check with the medical or health council relevant to their profession.

CAE will provide candidates with their results on each subtest. CAE cannot provide advice on whether a Medical /

Health Council will consider the results satisfactory. Candidates must liaise with the relevant professional body.

What if a satisfactory result is not obtained?

Candidates can resit all of the OET or only the subtests in which they did not receive a satisfactory result.Candidates should check with their appropriate medical/health council as to what constitutes a satisfactory

result.

For further and up-to-date information about OET, please check the website: www.oet.com.au


8/88


9/88

Background


Sample Test Materials

This kit contains the following materials:

Sample Reading subtest with answer key

Sample Listening subtest with cassette tape and answer key

Sample Writing subtest with sample answers

Sample Speaking subtest material and cassette tape with two sample role plays, one for doctors andone for nurses.

Sample materials are adapted from past tests. Further sample test items can be found in theAdditional

Practice Materials. To purchase theAdditional Practice Materials refer to the OET website .

The sample test materials aim to help candidates prepare for the Occupational English Test. The format and

content of the sample materials is similar to the OET that candidates will undertake.

Advice to candidates

Work through the sample materials under test conditions to gain an understanding of the test

requirements. Read and follow the instructions carefully.

Use a pencil so that answers can be erased and the materials can be used again.

Finish each subtest in the time allowed. Do not stop half way through for a break.

Stop writing when the time has run out. Ask a friend to help you keep the time limits.

Check answers against the answer key or sample answers.

Ask a friend to assist with the Speaking subtest, and to give some comment or feedback on how well

you performed.

Ask an English teacher for some comments or feedback on how well your writing met the task set.

SS

Sample test

information


10/88


11/88


12/88


COMPUTER ANSWER SHEET


13/88


OET SAMPLE

Reading Subtest

Time allowed : 60 minutes

There are two reading passages in this test. After each passage you will nd a number of questions or

unnished statements about the passage, each with four suggested answers or ways of nishing.

You must choose the one which you think ts best, i.e. the best answer. For each question, 1-20, indicate on

your answer sheet the letter A, B, C or D against the number of the question.

Answer all questions. Marks will not be deducted for incorrect answers.

READING SUBTEST


14/88


OET SAMPLE

PASSAGE

Latin America struggles as cholera spreads

Paragraph 1

Health ofcials from 10 Latin American countries met in Washington DC this week to search for measures tocontrol the growing cholera epidemic in their countries. Last week the World Health Organisation (WHO) set up a

task force to combat the spread of the disease which, it predicts, could affect as many as 120 million people a

quarter of Latin Americas population.

Paragraph 2

Cholera has now reached beyond the western coastal countries of Peru, Colombia, Ecuador, and Chile to the

edge of Brazil. So far, the ve cases reported in Brazil are thought to be Peruvians who have crossed the border

at an island in the Amazon called Tabatinga. More than 163,000 cases have been reported to the WHO from

Latin America.

Paragraph 3

Despite the large numbers infected, the death rate has so far been relatively low. Figures from Peru show that

out of 158,929 cases of the disease there were 1,130 deaths fewer than 1 per cent of those affected. The

WHO says communities unprepared for cholera usually suffer a much higher death rate up to half of those who

develop the disease.

Paragraph 4

This is the rst widespread outbreak of cholera in the Americas for a century. Peru has done remarkably well,

says David Bennett, coordinator for the cholera taskforce at the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) in

Washington DC.

Paragraph 5

Cholera is treatable when diagnosed promptly. Jim Tulloch, head of the diarrhoeal diseases program at the WHO,

says Peru has for years been training its doctors to treat diarrhoeal disease and that this has helped to reduce

the death toll.

Paragraph 6

The cholera bacterium produces a toxin which paralyses the gut, stopping it from absorbing liquid. It kills only

because it dehydrates the body rapidly. Nine out of ten patients will recover simply by drinking oral rehydration

uids a balance of water, sugar and salt. Intravenous infusions of uid are necessary for the one in ten who

become severely dehydrated or are unable to keep liquids down. Antibiotics help to reduce the time that people

suffer from diarrhoea for and also make the diarrhoea itself less infectious.

Paragraph 7

No one is belittling the impact of the disease. The WHO says the epidemic is an unfolding tragedy worldwide,

with growing numbers of cases in Benin and Zambia as well as those in Latin America. But Tulloch emphasises

that the epidemic must be seen in the context of other deaths caused by diarrhoeal disease. He says that while2,000 people have died of cholera worldwide since the end of January, in the same period 800,000 children

under 5 years of age have died from diarrhoea.

Paragraph 8

The (Latin American) epidemic is much more of a disaster to the economy than to public health, says Sandy

Cairncross at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine. Many countries have banned imports of

food from Peru, despite the WHOs advice that no large cholera outbreak has ever been traced to commercial

imports. The WHO estimates that the epidemic will cost Peru $1 billion this year in losses to exports, tourism and

other earnings.

Paragraph 9

Ofcials say Perus poor water supply and overcrowding of the shanty towns that surround the coastal cities havehelped to spread the disease. The cholera bacterium is excreted in the faeces of infected people and thrives in

situations where sewage can mix with supplies of fresh water.

READING SUBTEST PART A

10

20

30


15/88


OET SAMPLE

PASSAGE

Paragraph 10

Horatio Lores, senior epidemiologist at the Lima ofce of the PAHO, says, We have much poverty here, no

sanitation and basic conditions. Few houses have piped water. Cairncross says that even 10 years ago people

were spending a tenth of their income on water bought from street vendors. Since then real incomes have

declined sharply.

Paragraph 11

According to the PAHO, the water and sewerage systems in Lima and Perus other coastal cities have not been

properly repaired for years. Levels of chlorine disinfectant in the water supplies have not been checked regularly

and the water pressure is not maintained for 24 hours a day, so wasted water can ow into any pipes that are

cracked. Where populations have grown rapidly, water supplies have become grossly overstretched.

Paragraph 12

A traditional practice in the dry coastal plains is to use sewage to fertilise elds when water is scarce, says

Cairncross. People even smash open sewers or pump water contaminated with raw sewage direct from rivers,

he says. Farmers need to grow the kind of crops that have high cash yields and short growing seasons, and

these are often vegetables that are eaten raw.

Paragraph 13

But while epidemiologists blame poverty and the deteriorating infrastructure for the cholera outbreak, no one

can explain why it should have happened suddenly. The conditions that have fuelled the disease have been

worsening for years. One assumes that cholera must have been introduced periodically during the last 20 or

30 years, admits Bennett. However, Tulloch in Geneva, says, The precise origin of the epidemic is irrelevant

because the level of contamination in the environment now is very high.

Paragraph 14

The bacterium that causes cholera, Vibrio Cholerae, has two main forms or biotypes: the El Tor biotype is the

cause of the current epidemic and the classical biotype was responsible for outbreaks earlier this century. The

WHO says Latin Americas current epidemic is part of the seventh pandemic, or world epidemic, which began as

long ago as 1961.Paragraph 15

El Tor was endemic in Indonesia before it began to spread. Probably carried by travellers, it reached Bangladesh

in 1963, India a year later and the Soviet Union in the mid-1960s. In 1970, El Tor reached West Africa, a region

that had been virtually free of cholera until then. The disease remains endemic in this area, where it is difcult to

distinguish from other causes of diarrhoea. Children are most affected.

Paragraph 16

Bennett says that El Tor spreads rapidly before it is detected, because for every one person to suffer severe

diarrhoea there are eight who have no symptoms or only mild disturbance, and so do not seek medical help. In

contrast, the classical biotype causes severe symptoms in half of those infected.

Paragraph 17Malnourished people and those who are carrying many intestinal parasites may be more susceptible than

healthy people, says Cairncross. It takes 100 billion vibrios in the gut of a healthy person to cause the disease,

because large numbers are immobilised by acid in the stomach. But in someone whose gut is less acidic

because of a heavy parasite burden, it takes only 1 million organisms.

Paragraph 18

The PAHO believes good surveillance and speedy reporting by countries is more cost effective than border

controls for halting the spread of the disease. The organisation has sent diagnostic equipment to laboratories in

countries at risk and has sent some staff on training courses at the Centers for Disease Control in Atlanta.

Paragraph 19

The existing vaccine against cholera, which is based on killed vibrios, protects only half of those who receiveit, and then only for a few months. The WHO hopes to start a trial in Brazil of an oral vaccine that contains

fragments of cholera toxin as well as killed vibrios. This vaccine was tested in Bangladesh in the mid-1980s, with

partial success.

PART A READING SUBTEST

40

50

60

70


16/88


OET SAMPLEREADING SUBTEST PART A

QUESTIONS

Latin America struggles as cholera spreads

1 So far, the number of people affected by the current cholera epidemic in Latin America is:

a) about 120 million

b) between 160,000 and 120 million

c) between 60,000 and 160,000

d) less than 60,000

2 The number of people who have died from the current epidemic in Peru is:

a) surprisingly high

b) about 1 percent of the population

c) surprisingly low

d) about 50 percent of those affected

3 According to the article, which of the following statements about cholera is FALSE?

a) it usually kills about 50 percent of the people affected by it

b) it has not been seen on such a large scale in that region for more than 100 years

c) the gut of a person affected by it is unable to process liquids

d) 90 percent of those affected do not need to be treated intravenously

4 According to the article, Perus water supply

a) is linked directly to the large number of houses

b) has a constant pressure

c) is chlorinated

d) system is being overhauled

5 The practice of using sewage to fertilise elds

a) is traditionally carried out throughout the country

b) has been recently introduced

c) has caused the current outbreak of cholera

d) is an old solution to an old problem


17/88


OET SAMPLE PART A READING SUBTEST

QUESTIONS

6 The current cholera epidemic in Latin America

a) began in Colombia

b) began in Brazil

c) is part of a world-wide epidemic

d) is of unknown origin

7 El Tor

a) is NOT the classical biotype of the cholera bacterium

b) was most likely spread by travellers

c) was identied in India after Bangladesh

d) is/was all of the above

8 Which of the following statements about El Tor is TRUE?

a) it was the rst cholera bacterium to be detected in West Africa

b) it is not detected as easily as the old biotype

c) it causes severe diarrhoea in all sufferers

d) it has also appeared in isolated cases in Geneva

9 Which of the following is given as THE LEAST USEFUL MEASURE for keeping the disease in check?

a) increased patrols along common borders

b) monitoring areas in which cholera has been detected

c) efcient sharing of information

d) an improved diet

10 From the article, it can be inferred that

a) WHO is now close to nding an effective preventative vaccine for cholera

b) people are more likely to die from diarrhoeal disease than from cholera

c) up to a quarter of Latin Americas population could die unless trials with a new oral vaccine

succeed

d) the outbreak of cholera in any country will affect its economy as much as its public health

THAT IS THE END OF PART A

TURN OVER AND COMPLETE PART B


18/88


OET SAMPLE

PASSAGE

READING SUBTEST PART B

Trans Fat Does margarine really lower cholesterol?

Paragraph 1

Butter, as anyone who has not been living in a cave for the past 10 years has probably heard, contains a lotof saturated fat, which increases the levels of cholesterol in the blood. Margarine, on the other hand, is made

from vegetable oils, which contain cholesterol-lowering polyunsaturated fat. So switching to a diet with only

vegetable fats should lower cholesterol levels, right?

Paragraph 2

Wrong, says Margaret A. Flynn, a nutritionist at the University of Missouri. When she performed the

experiment with a group of 71 faculty members switching in both directions she found that basically

it made no difference whether they ate margarine or butter. The reason, according to a growing group

of nutritionists, could be partially hydrogenated fats. Recent studies suggest that such fats might actually

alter cholesterol levels in the blood in all the wrong ways, lowering the good high-density lipoprotein and

increasing the bad low-density lipoprotein.Paragraph 3

Partially hydrogenated fats are made by reacting polyunsaturated oils with hydrogen. The addition of

hydrogen turns the oils solid, and some of their polyunsaturated fat is turned into trans monounsaturated fats.

Monounsaturated fat is generally perceived as good, but things are not so simple. Trans monounsaturates

act in the body like saturated fats, says Fred A. Kummerow, a food chemist at the University of Illinois at

Urbana-Champaign. Almost all naturally occurring monounsaturated fat is of the cis variety, which is more like

polyunsaturated fat.

Paragraph 4

Flynns study is not the rst to raise questions about trans fatty acids. Ten years ago a Canadian government

task force noted the apparent cholesterol-raising effects oftrans fats and requested margarine manufacturersto reduce the amounts which can easily be done by altering the conditions of the hydrogenation reaction.

Paragraph 5

Last August two Dutch researchers, Ronald P. Mensink and Martijn B. Katan, published a study in the New

England Journal of Medicine that showed eating a diet rich in trans fats increased low-density lipoprotein and

decreased levels of high-density lipoprotein. In an editorial accompanying the study, Scott M. Grundy, a lipid

researcher at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Centre at Dallas, wrote that the ability of trans fatty

acids to increase low-density lipoprotein in itself justies their reduction in the diet. Grundy called for changes

in labelling regulations so that cholesterol-raising fatty acids, including trans monounsaturates, are grouped

together.

Paragraph 6

James I. Cleeman, coordinator of the National Cholesterol Education Program, disagrees. To raise a red

ag is premature, he says. Mensinks audience is the research community the public needs useable

simplications. Cleeman points out that the subjects in Mensink and Katans study ate relatively large

amounts oftrans fats. He believes more typical consumption levels should be investigated before any change

in recommendations is warranted.

Paragraph 7

Furthermore, Cleeman notes that studies like Flynns are hard to interpret because subjects were allowed to

eat as they pleased. Flynnss study, published this month in theJournal of the American College of Nutrition,

found considerable variability among subjects in their blood lipid proles. The only way to study the question

properly is in a metabolic ward, Cleeman says. Trans fats are a wonderful example of an issue thats not

ready for prime time.

10

20

30


19/88


OET SAMPLE

PASSAGE

PART B READING SUBTEST

Paragraph 8

Edward A. Emken, a specialist on trans fats at the Agricultural Research Service in Peoria, Illinois, alsodownplays the concern but for different reasons. Although Mary G. Enig, a nutritional researcher at the

University of Maryland, has estimated American adults consume 19 grams oftrans fat per day, Emken thinks

that gure is too high. According to his calculations, eliminating trans fatty acids from the diet will for most

people make only a tiny change in lipoprotein levels. If youre hypercholesterolemic, it could be important, but

if youre not, then it is not going to affect risk at all, he concludes.

Paragraph 9

Emken, together with Lisa C. Hudgins and Jules Hirsch, has performed a study to be published in the

American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, that nds no association between levels oftrans fats in fat tissue in

humans and their cholesterol proles. To Emken, that suggests trans fats are not a major threat for most

people.Paragraph 10

Nevertheless, trans fats seem destined for more limelight. How can one defend having cholesterol and

saturated and unsaturated fats listed on food labels but not allow public access to trans information when

such fats behave like saturates? asks Bruce J. Holub, a biochemist at the University of Guelph in Ontario. At

the very least, one has to ask whether cholesterol-free claims should be allowed on high-trans products.

Tim Beardsley

40

50


20/88


OET SAMPLEREADING SUBTEST PART B

QUESTIONS

Trans Fat Does margarine really lower cholesterol?

11 M. A. Flynns nding is supported by the proposition that

a) butter lowers high-density lipoprotein while margarine increases low-density lipoprotein

b) butter contains just as much partially hydrogenated fat as margarine

c) trans monounsaturates behave similarly to most naturally-occurring monounsaturates

d) trans monounsaturated fat increases cholesterol level

12 Recent studies suggest that

a) partially hydrogenated fats decrease high-density lipoprotein

b) partially hydrogenated fats do not increase low-density lipoprotein

c) both a) and b)

d) neither a) nor b)

13 According to the article,

a) eating butter is not as dangerous for cholesterol levels as was previously thought

b) cholesterol levels in humans can be noticeably reduced by cutting out animal fats

c) eating margarine is healthier than eating butter

d) the benets of using only vegetable fats in the human diet are arguable

14 Research into trans fats

a) has been going on for at least ten years

b) has been going on for less than ten years

c) has reached an advanced stage

d) has led to popular support for relabelling of butter and margarine

15 As a result of Flynns study,

a) a Canadian government task force recommended the reduction of trans fats in margarine

b) a Canadian government task force recommended that the conditions for the hydrogenation

reaction should be changed

c) margarine manufacturers in Canada changed their practices

d) none of the above


21/88


OET SAMPLE PART B READING SUBTEST

QUESTIONS

16 Which of the following statements is FALSE?

a) we do not know what conclusions Flynn drew about lipoproteins

b) Mensink and Katan came to the same conclusion about lipoprotein as Flynn

c) Grundys recommendation was supported by Mensink and Katans ndings

d) None of the above

17 James I. Cleeman DOES NOT

a) agree with Grundys recommendation for relabelling

b) dispute Mensink and Katans research into the effects of eating trans fats

c) want Mensink and Katans work discussed outside the research community

d) want to wait any longer before warning the public

18 Which statement would Cleeman agree with?

a) Flynns study is not very valuable because she is hard to understand

b) Trans fats should now be discussed and debated by interested members of the public

c) Flynns study was not sufciently rigorous

d) Flynns subjects should have had more food of a more varied nature

19 It has been estimated that American adults consume 19 grams of trans fats per day. Edward Emken

a) believes that a reduction in this gure could be achieved quite easily

b) is not very concerned about trans fat intake levels for most people

c) does not think that they should consume so much in trans fats

d) thinks that people should eliminate trans fats from their diets

20 According to Tim Beardsley, the writer of the article,

a) Emken, in a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, has challenged other

researchers claims

b) the levels of trans fats tissue in humans and their cholesterol proles are not connected

c) the issue of trans fat is likely to receive more, rather than less, attention in the future

d) food products should be labelled with their trans information in addition to the current

information

THAT IS THE END OF THE READING TEST


22/88


23/88


Subtest

Listening

Time allocation

Approximately 60 minutes.

Test format and procedure

Candidates are required to listen to an audio tape about two health related issues and to answer questions which

test understanding of spoken English. The subtest is not specic to a profession.

The Listening Subtest has two sections:

Part A: an interview between a health professional (eg. a doctor) and a patient

Part B: a talk on a general topic related to health, such as a public lecture, or a talk by an expert health

professional.

Candidates must complete both sections of the subtest.

There are approximately 20 questions to answer.

For each section, candidates will be given one minute to look at the questions before listening to the tape.

Candidates will need to write a word or phrase in answer to each question. Questions are to be answered whilethe audio tape is being played. The tape will be played once only. There are pauses on the tape for candidates

to nish writing an answer and to enable candidates to read the next question.

The instructions on the tape are the same as the instructions written on the test paper.

Assessment procedure

The Listening subtest is marked by qualied, experienced English assessors who have been trained in OET

assessment procedures. They will decide if the answers given are close enough to be marked correct.

The Listening subtest is marked in Melbourne. 10% of candidate responses (papers) are randomly selected and

double marked to check assessor reliability.

The sample materials

The sample materials consist of:

an audio tape with two parts, one an interview between a health professional and a patient and the

second, a general topic related to health

a series of questions related to the passages on the tape

a listening test answer key (see page 71).

Generalinformation


24/88


Using the materials

Make sure an audioplayer or tape recorder is available.

Allow enough time (60 minutes) to do all the sample listening subtest in one sitting, as in the OET.

Make sure writing implements are available. Some people prefer to use a pencil because they can rub out

incorrect words and re-write their answer. Others nd it quicker and easier to use a pen and to cross out

incorrect words or phrases.

Check answers against the answer key. Many of the questions have several correct answers. Alternative

answers are indicated by a slash /. Minor variations in wording are acceptable provided the key meaning

has been retained.

A total score of around 65% on these tests (Part A and B combined) should give you a good chance of

getting a satisfactory result.


25/88


OET SAMPLE

Listening Test Part A

Time allowed: 24 minutes

In this part of the test, you will hear a doctor in a community health centre interviewing Mrs Gunn, a diabetic

patient attending the clinic for the rst time.

As you listen, you must make notes about the consultation under the headings given on the answer sheet.

TURN OVER and read through these headings now. You will have ONE MINUTE to do this.

You must give as much information as you can under each of the headings provided. There will be pauses

during the consultation for you to complete your notes under the relevant heading. There will also be a few

minutes extra at the end for you to nish writing your answers.Give your answers in note form. Dont waste time writing full sentences.

Remember, you will hear the interview ONCE ONLY.

TURN OVER

THIS TEST IS IN TWO PARTS

PART A LISTENING SUBTEST


26/88


OET SAMPLE

QUESTIONS

Make notes about the consultation under the headings given below.

Give as much information as you can.

The rst question has been done for you.

1 Reason for attendance at surgery

2 Medical History

a) Diabetes

b) Vision

3 Circumstances of burn and work history

TURN OVER

script for prescription drugs

have her arm looked at

Markers use

only

Item 1

2

Item 2

2

Item 3

2

LISTENING SUBTEST PART A


27/88


OET SAMPLE

4 Dietary habits

5 Family history (medical)

6 Social relationships (including family)

7 Treatment plan: i.e. proposed management of condition

a) Diabetes

b) Vision

TURN OVER

Markers use

only

Item 4

4

Item 5

2

Item 6

3

Item 7

3

Item 8

2

QUESTIONS

PART A LISTENING SUBTEST


28/88


OET SAMPLE

QUESTIONS

c) Burn

8 History of arthritis (including current factors)

9 Treatment plan continued

a) Arthritis

b) Obesity

THAT IS THE END OF SECTION A

Markers use

only

Item 9

1

Item 10

2

Item 11

3

Item 12

1

Item 13

1

LISTENING SUBTEST PART A


29/88


OET SAMPLE

QUESTIONS

Listening Test Part B

Time allowed: 28 minutes

In this part of the test, you will hear a talk on the Victorian Division of the National Heart Foundation (NHF) of

Australia, given by Michael Lynch.

You will hear the talk ONCE ONLY, in sections. You must answer the questions in the spaces provided.

There will be time during the talk for you to read each question, and to complete your answers.

TURN OVER and look quickly through the paper now. You will have ONE MINUTE to do this.

You may write as you listen, and you can complete your answers in the pauses between sections.

Remember, you will hear the interview ONCE ONLY.

Look at Question 1 now. Question 1 has been done for you.

TURN OVER

PART B LISTENING SUBTEST


30/88


OET SAMPLE

QUESTIONS

LISTENING SUBTEST PART B

The speaker introduces the National Heart Foundation (NHF), an agency which

aims to promote health in the community.

1 What is the agent of change discussed in this talk?

2 In what general way does the NHF aim to reduce premature

cardiovascular disease?

3 List TWO aspects of modern life mentioned that cause insecurity:

4 The work of the Education Unit of the National Heart Foundation.

a) Describe how the Education Unit delivers its message to the community.

b) The speaker suggests how healthier choices can be made easier.

List the three factors involved in these choices.

5 Policy in health promotion.

a) In the speakers opinion are the following statements

about health promotion true (T) or false (F). T F

It should involve the general population in their daily life

It should use a single approach to the problem

It should concentrate on specialist medical knowledge.

TURN OVER

Markers use

only

Item 14

1

Item 15

2

Item 16

2

Item 17

3

Item 18

1

nutrition


31/88


OET SAMPLE PART B LISTENING SUBTEST

The speaker describes the tenets of the Ottawa Charter, produced in Canada,

and how these aims are carried out.

b) In the spaces provided, complete the following summary of

the aims of the Ottawa Charter:

To examine government policy in all areas

To look at places where people work and live in order to

create a more healthy

To help individuals to become active in health promotion

To increase involvement of the

in planning and decision-making

To move the focus of health services from simply providing

services to trying to make people healthier.

The speaker gives examples of the Education Units work in Melbourne.

6 Describe two recent changes affecting health that have occurred in

places of entertainment and culture in Melbourne.

7 The speaker describes the Primary Schools Nutrition Project.

a) List two problems identied by the Education Unit among primaryschool children?

b) List one aim of this project.

TURN OVER

Markers use

only

Item 19

2

Item 20

2

Item 21

2

Item 22

1

QUESTIONS


32/88


OET SAMPLE

QUESTIONS

LISTENING SUBTEST PART B

c) The NHF was involved in a large street festival in Melbourne. How did the NHF

put its health message across in this street festival?

d) Why is it important to explain health promotion to health professionals?

8 Future challenges for the NHF.

a) What trend in overweight people should the NHF investigate?

b) How does the NHF want General Practitioners to help reduce cardiovascular

disease?

c) By working with other health agencies, what do they hope to produce?

d) Why should the NHF consider helping fast food businesses to introduce

healthy foods?

9 The speaker concludes his talk.

a) What criticism does the speaker make about the way the health budgetis spent?

b) According to the speaker, what is the biggest challenge for health

agencies over the next 10 years?

THAT IS THE END OF THE LISTENING TEST

YOU NOW HAVE TWO MINUTES TO CHECK YOUR ANSWERS

Markers use

only

Item 23

1

Item 24

1

Item 25

4

Item 26

1

Item 27

1


33/88


Subtest

Writing

Time allocation

40 minutes. An extra 5 minutes is allowed as reading time.


The Writing subtest is specic to each profession.

This subtest requires candidates to write a letter of referral, transfer or advice based on case notes which are

provided. The case notes relate to a typical situation in each profession.

Candidates are required to write approximately 200 words.


In the OET, the piece of writing is assessed by qualied, experienced English assessors who have been trained in

OET assessment procedures. The assessment is based on the following criteria:

overall task fullment

appropriateness of language comprehension of stimulus material

linguistic features (grammar and cohesion)

presentation features (spelling, presentation, layout).

The Writing subtest papers are assessed in Melbourne. All papers are double marked.



sample writing tasks covering ten health profession areas

a sample answer for each task (see page 71).

Using the materials

Allow enough time (40 minutes) to do the sample writing subtest in one sitting. This will give 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.

Candidates should select the task relevant to their profession.

On completion of the letter, check your work.

Read the sample answer provided in this booklet to establish if the sample answer contains additional points

or information.

Generalinformation


34/88

WRITING SUBTEST DENTISTS


OET SAMPLE

Writing Test DentistsTime allowed: 40 minutes

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

Patient Ms. Rosie Buck

7 Horseshoe Drive

Keilor

Ph: 491 2641

Born on 22.07.1950

Reason for Presenting Pain associated with front tooth.Unable to bite on the tooth.

Increasing pain; pain control tablets ineffective.

Dental History - Radiographs (x-rays)

Previous dental experience - llings

- scale and clean (regularly)

- Root canal lling

- Crowns

- Wisdom teeth extraction

Medical History - Bad reaction to local anaesthetic (probably due to adrenaline in anaesthetic)

- Allergic to penicillin

- Used to smoke cigarettes (gave up 7 years ago)

Family and Social History Born in Melbourne. Married. Two brothers: younger brother recently

diagnosed with cancer. He has just nished chemotherapy treatment.

Two children, the oldest having trouble at school.

Regularly attends dental clinic for routine care. Attends with children.

Examination 01.07.1992

All teeth present except wisdom teeth (18, 28, 38, 48)

MOD amalgams in 17, 16, 27, 37, 36, 47, 45, 44

MO amalgam in 15, 25, 46DO amalgam in 26, 35

Occlusal amalgam in 14

Composite resin lling in 13, 12, 11, 21, 23

Carious lesion in 16, 26, 24, 43, 11

Much supraginginal calculus on most teeth.

Subginginal calculus around most teeth.

Worn biting surfaces on most teeth.


35/88


OET SAMPLE

Treatment Record

01.07.1995 Radiographs. Oral hygiene instruction. Treatment plan formulated.

14.07.1995 Gross scaling of teeth. Further oral hygiene instruction.

Amalgam llings 24, 26

21.07.1995 Fine scaling of teeth. Particularly subginginal calculus. Continue hygiene instruction.

Amalgam lling 16. Composite resin lling 43.

2 ampoules of 2.2 ml Lignocaine.

28.07.1995 Commence root canal treatment on 11. Caries removed on 11.

Temporary lling.

2.2ml Lignocaine. Prescription for Erythmonycin 250 mg.

12.08.1995 Complete root lling 11. Temporary lling.

2.2 ml Lignocaine.

19.10.1995 Post crown inserted on 11. Glass ionemes cement used.Fine scale. Reinforce oral hygiene.

15.05.1996 Routine dental examination. Scale and clean.

20.12.1996 Routine dental examination. Scale and clean.

Composite resin lling 23.

05.02.1997 Presents with pain on and around post crown on 11. Radiograph taken.

Probing indicates deep pocket on mesial surface of tooth 11.

Tooth sensitive to pressure.

Refer to gum specialist for treatment of gum abscess around tooth 11.

Writing Task

Using the information in the case notes, write a letter of referral to the specialist, Dr Perry Dontal,10 Carpenter St, Brighton, 3186, requesting conrmation of diagnosis and treatment.

In your answer:

Expand the relevant case notes into complete sentences.

Do not use note form.

The body of the letter should be approximately 200 words.

Use correct letter format.

DENTISTS WRITING SUBTEST


36/88


OET SAMPLE

Writing Test DietitiansTime allowed: 40 minutes


Patient History James Mann was referred by Dr Smith for advice on a low fat diet for

inammation of the gall bladder due to gallstones.

Will possibly have surgery for this problem in the future.

Case Notes

25.1.97 Mr James Mann

50 years old

Past Medical History Recent acute attack of cholecystitis

No previous history of gallstones

Social History Works on a factory line

Sedentary

Married

No children at home

Weight History Wt = 90 kg

Ht = 178 cmBMI = 28 (overweight)

Acceptable weight for height range

63-79 kg

Subjective Information Patient happy to make changes does not want to experience further pain.

Diet History Breakfast: Bowl of cornakes and full cream milk

Tea

Morning Tea: 1 jam doughnut, tea

Lunch (from canteen at work):

Meat pie and tomato sauce; mashed potato or chips; mashed

pumpkin; beans; cold meat; salad/vegetables; 2 slices white

bread and butter; avoured milk

Afternoon tea: Tea

After work: 2 cans of beer; small packet peanuts or crisps

Evening meal: meat or sh or chicken (fried or grilled); potato; mixed

vegetables; ice cream and fruit salad; tea

Supper: None

WRITING SUBTEST DIETITIANS


37/88


OET SAMPLE

Dietary Problems Excess fat whole milk

fried foods

pastry

peanuts ice cream

Excess energy

Education Given Healthy eating

How to reduce fat intake to approx 50 gm

Encouraged to aim for Healthy Weight Range in order to:

i) Reduce surgical risk

ii) Reduce risk of developing other conditions, e.g. diabetes, high blood

pressure, heart disease

Encouraged to increase exercise

Review in 2 weeks

Writing Task

Using the information in the case notes, write a letter to Dr J Smith, 765 Brunswick Road, Preston,

3072, informing him of your management of the patient.

In your answer:





DIETITANS WRITING SUBTEST


38/88


OET SAMPLEWRITING SUBTEST DOCTORS

Writing Test DoctorsTime allowed: 40 minutes


Patient History Derek Romano is a patient in your General Practice.

20.3.97

Subjective: 46 year old insurance clerk wants check up

smokes 1 pkt cigarettes per dayhigh blood pressure in past

no regular exercise

father died aged 48 of acute myocardial infarction

married, one child

no medications or allergies

Objective: BP 150/100 P 80 regular

Overweight Ht 170 cm Wt 98 kg

Cardiovascular and respiratory examination normal

Urinalysis normal

Plan: Advise re weight loss, smoking cessation

Review BP in 1 month

8.4.97

Subjective: Still smoking, no increase in exercise

Objective: BP 155/100

Assessment: Hypertension

Plan: Commence nifedipine (calcium channel blocker)20 mg daily

Check blood glucose, serum cholesterol

Cholesterol = 6.4 mmol/L


39/88


OET SAMPLE DOCTORS WRITING SUBTEST

23.4.97

Subjective: Mild burning epigastric pain, radiating retrosternally. Occurs

after eating and walking.

Objective: BP 155/100Abdominal and cardiovascular exam otherwise normal.

Assessment: ? Gastric reux. Non-compliance with anti-hypertensive medication.

Plan: Add Mylanta 30 mls q.i.d.

Increase nifedipine to 20 mg twice daily.

30.4.97

Subjective: Crushing retrosternal chest pain. Sweaty. Mild dyspnoea.

Onset while walking, present for about one hour. Objective: BP 160/100 P 64 in obvious distress

Few crepitations at lung bases.

ECG inferior acute myocardial infarction.

Assessment: Acute myocardial infarction

Plan: Oxygen given

Anginine given sublingually

Morphine 2.5 mg given IV stat

Maxolon 10 mg given IV stat

You decide to call an ambulance and send this man to the Emergency Department, at the Royal Melbourne

Hospital.

Writing Task

Using the information in the case notes, write a letter of referral to the Registrar in the Emergency

Department of the Royal Melbourne Hospital, Flemington Road, Parkville, 3052.

In your answer:






40/88


OET SAMPLEWRITING SUBTEST NURSES

Writing Task

Using the information in the case notes, write a letter of referral to the maternal and child health nurse

who will provide follow-up care in this case: Ms Josie Hext, Maternal and Child Health Centre, 133

Elm Grove, Westeld, 2692.

In your answer:





Writing Test NursesTime allowed: 40 minutes


Patient History Maria Ortiz is a seven-day-old baby. Her mother has been discharged

from the maternity hospital.

Baby Maria Ortiz, 7 days old

Social History Mother Violetta Ortiz

DOB 07/08/1967

Husband Jose, 36 yearsOccupation security guard (night shift)

Other children Sam, 5 years (currently not attending school)

Teresa, 3 years

Accommodation Two-bedroom at (rented)

Nursing Notes Normal birth

Breast fed

Mother anxious about coping with 3 children

Baby sleepy; reluctant to feed

Babys weight: birth 3010 g

Discharge 3020 gFather unable to assist with children (night work)

Mother very tired

No car; 20-minute walk to shops

Discharged from hospital 10th April, 1997


41/88


OET SAMPLE OCCUPATIONAL THERAPISTS WRITING SUBTEST

Writing Test Occupational TherapistsTime allowed: 40 minutes


The patient is to be discharged from the City Hospital to a rehabilitation centre today.

Name: Jillian May Jackson

DOB: 23/4/59

Occupation: Librarian. Unable to work for 2 years.

Social: Married. Supportive husband (bank manager)

No children

Diagnosis: 1/52 exacerbation of Multiple Sclerosis

Past history: MS for 5 years: gradual deterioration over this time

8.5.97 Initial Assessment

Communication/Presentation Motivated. Optimistic. Speech Ataxia (Dysarthria)

Accommodation 2-storey house; 4 steps at front, 2 steps at back.

Upstairs bathroom and toilet.

Physical Status Mobility: manual wheelchair

Upper Limb Status: dominant. Mild upper limb ataxia

Lower Limb Status: severe spasticity. Unable to walk.

9.5.97 Personal Activities of Daily Living

Difculties with bringing food to mouth, cutting food; all transfers (unable to stand);

dressing/controlled movements; managing permanent indwellingurinary catheter; sexual activity; using telephone.

10.5.97

Domestic/community ADL Cooking, cleaning, laundry, shopping husband doing these for the

last 12 months? Home help required.

Driving/Transport Unable to drive. Housebound. Difculty transferring in/out of car.

Recreation Gets bored, depressed. Unable to continue previous hobbies,

interests. Few social contacts.


42/88


OET SAMPLE

Support Services None previously. ? Home Help or attendant care required. Other therapy Speech Therapy, Physiotherapy

Assistive Devices Currently in Use None on admission.

11.5.97

Treatment Session on Personal ADL eating and dressing.

Provided adapted cutlery, plate guard.

Modication of clothing begun. Motivated but progress slow and

laborious.

Labile.

Patient requirements Home Assessment. Recommendation modications re wheelchair

access.

Assistive Devices.Intervention in conjunction with Physiotherapy i.e. transfers.

Alternative to writing. ? Computer.

Modication to telephone.

12.5.97 Continued with eating and dressing. Some assistance still required.

15.5.97 For discharge to rehab centre today. Modication of underclothes

complete. Able to dress in a T-shirt independently, requires

assistance with lower limb dressing. Able to feed self using weightedcutlery. Discharged with this equipment.

Writing Task

Using the information in the case notes write a letter of referral to, Ms Dorothy Ross, Occupational

Therapy Department, Metropolitan Rehabilitation Centre, Marks Street, Clayton, 3168.

In your answer:





WRITING SUBTEST OCCUPATIONAL THERAPISTS


43/88


OET SAMPLE

Writing Test PharmacistsTime allowed: 40 minutes


Patient Mrs Charlton, in her late 60s, is a regular customer of yours. Her neighbour brings in a

prescription for you to dispense. You recognise that the medication is for

treatment of hypertension. According to your records, Mrs Charlton is not currently taking

any medication and has not previously taken this or any other anti-hypertensive medication.

Prescription Dr B Goodrich

234 High Street

Crystal Creek 3111

Ph: 802 9743

Mrs V Charlton

16 White Street

Crystal Creek 3111

Drug X 5 mg

30 tabs

Sig: 1 mane pc

Prescribing information for drug X

Actions: Antihypertensive with a 24 hour action.

Indications As a primary measure in the treatment of mild to moderate hypertension and as an adjunctfor use: to other antihypertensive agents in the treatment of severe hypertension.

Contra- Known sensitivity to the drug or others of its class. Drug X should not be used for patients

indications: with severe renal disease or complete renal shutdown or in patients with severe liver disease

and/or impending hepatic coma.

Precautions: All patients should be observed for clinical signs of uid or electrolyte imbalance including

hyponatraemia. These include thirst, dryness of the mouth, lethargy and drowsiness. With

intensive or prolonged therapy it is important to guard against hypochloraemic alkalosis and

hypokalaemia.

PHARMACISTS WRITING SUBTEST


44/88


OET SAMPLEWRITING SUBTEST PHARMACISTS

Adverse Gastrointestinal: anorexia, gastric irritation, nausea, vomiting, cramping, diarrhoea,

Reactions: constipation, jaundice, pancreatitis.

C.N.S.: dizziness, vertigo, paresthesias, headache, xanthopsia.

Cardiovascular: orthostatic hypotension

Haemotological: leucopenia, agranulocytosis, thrombocytopenia, aplastic anaemia. Hypersensitivity (dermatological): purpura, photosensitivity, rash, urticaria, vasculitis.

Other: hyperglycaemia, glucosuria, hyperuricemia, muscle spasm, weakness,

restlessness.

Impotence has been observed with some drugs in the group when used in high doses.

Interaction: The following have been reported:

Alcohol & barbiturates: orthostatic hypotension may occur or be aggravated;

Digitalis: increase digitalis toxicity;

Ganglionic and peripheral adrenergic blocking drugs: potentiation of effect;

Insulin: diabetic control may be altered;

Lithium: lithium toxicity increased; Muscle relaxants: neuromuscular block increased;

Noradrenaline: decreased arterial responsiveness;

Oral antidiabetic agents: reduced effectiveness;

Phenothiazines: shock

Overdosage: Symptoms: Symptoms include electrolyte imbalance and signs of potassium deciency

such as confusion, dizziness, muscular weakness and gastrointestinal disturbances.

Treatment: General supportive measures, including replacement of uids and

electrolytes are indicated.

Use in Pregnancy Category C.

pregnancy and Drug X should be used with caution by pregnant women and by nursing mothers sincelactation: drugs in the group cross the placental barrier and appear in cord blood. Use may result

in foetal or neonatal jaundice, bone marrow depression and thrombocytopenia, altered

carbohydrate metabolism. In newborn infants of mothers showing decreased glucose

tolerance, and other adverse reactions which have occurred in the adult: when the drug

is used in pregnant women, the potential benets of the drug should be weighted against

the possible hazards to the foetus.

Australian categorisation denition:

Category C: Drugs which, owing to their pharmacological effects, have cause or may be

suspected of causing, harmful effects on the human foetus or neonate without causing

malformations. These effects may be reversible.

Dosage and Administered orally

Administration: Adults: Usual dose: 2.5 to 10 mg once daily. To maintain an oedema-free state or

as adjunct in the management of hypertension, 2.5 to 5 mg once daily. Usual optimum

daily dose: 5 mg, maximum effective single dose is 10 mg. Administer after food to

minimise gastrointestinal side effects. Monitor for dizziness after initial dosage.

In the treatment of hypertension, Drug X may be either employed alone or concurrently

with other antihypertensive with lower dosage of the component drugs and few or less

severe side effects.


45/88


OET SAMPLE

Writing Task

Using the drug information provided, write a letter to Mrs Charlton summarising advice on how to take

her medication, what side effects to be aware of and how to cope with them.

In your answer:





PHARMACISTS WRITING SUBTEST


46/88


OET SAMPLE

Writing Test PhysiotherapistsTime allowed: 40 minutes


The patient is to be discharged from the orthopaedic ward to a rehabilitation centre where he will attend as an

outpatient.

Patient history Surname: Browning

Given Names: John Louis

Birthdate: 30.10.39

Occupation: Credit ManagerSocial: Lives with his wife. Children have moved out.

Diagnosis: Elective total knee replacement on 16.12.96

X-ray Report (19.12.96): L Total Knee Replacement position appears satisfactory

Past history L Knee trouble for many years osteoarthritis, instability, intermittent locking. Painful

most of the time. Uses a walking stick. Was an A-grade soccer player. Years of knee

pain L > R Keen sportsman in the past. Previously independent.

17.12.96 Resting in bed with a zimmer knee splint.

Treatment Deep breathing and coughing exercises

Bed exercises: static quads, straight-leg raise, foot and ankle

Plan Continue bed exercises, mobilise when able, aim for home

18.12.96 Complaining of pain

Treatment Continue bed exercises

Poor static quadriceps contraction unable to lift leg

Plan To commence ambulating on Friday

20.12.96 Pain decreased

Treatment Bed exercises as previously still not able to straight leg raise

Quad exercises ++

Commence active knee exion = 30

Commence partial weight bearing with crutches and Zimmer splint walked 10 metres

with difculty

WRITING SUBTEST PHYSIOTHERAPISTS


47/88


OET SAMPLE

24.12.96 No change in range of motion or quads strength

Continue bed exercises and walking

Encourage ++

4.1.97 No change. For manipulation under anaesthetic tomorrow.

6.1.97 Having intensive physiotherapy

Knee exion = 60

Quads lag 10

Walking independently between crutches

Refer to rehabilitation centre for out-patient physiotherapy

Review in out-patient clinic: 6.2.97

PHYSIOTHERAPISTS WRITING SUBTEST

Writing Task

Using the information in the case notes, write a letter of referral to Ms Barbara Blunt, Physiotherapy

Department, St Stephens Rehabilitation Centre, Bond Street, Burwood, 3125.

In your answer:






48/88


OET SAMPLEWRITING SUBTEST PODIATRISTS

Writing Test PodiatristsTime allowed: 40 minutes


Patient history Name: Mrs Emily-Jane Smith

Date of birth: 27.08.1930

Social history Widow: husband died ve years ago

Planning to move across town to live with unmarried daughter

Medical history Healthy

Recently diagnosed as a non-insulin diabetic

i.e. Diabetes is being controlled by a combination of diet and medication

21.1.2001 Visit to podiatrist as recommended by doctor.

Reason for visit To check feet due to current medical condition

No problem.

2.7.2001 Visit to podiatrist

Patient reported painless swelling on dorsum of right foot

Diagnosis ganglion

Treatment nil at this time

Recommendation To visit podiatrist for check-up every three months: to monitor ganglion,

possible side-effects of diabetes

Writing Task

Given that Mrs Smith plans to move in one-months time, to live with her unmarried daughter in

Blackburn, using the information in the case notes, write a letter of referral to Ms Joanne Smythe:

Podiatrist, 4 Embank Arcade, Blackburn 3130.

In your answer:






49/88


OET SAMPLE RADIOGRAPHERS WRITING SUBTEST

Writing Test RadiographersTime allowed: 40 minutes

Read the letter, the x-ray reports and the patient log below, then complete the writing task which

follows.

D.J. Smith

Medical Superintendent

Bankstown Hospital

Chapel Street

Bankstown NSW 2143

Dear Dr. Smith,

I am writing to complain about the treatment my son received from a radiographer at your hospital on

Saturday, 20/07/97.

My son, Tim, is 6 years old, and I took him to your casualty section after he had fallen off a swing at the

local playground and hurt his arm. By the time I got Tim to your casualty section his elbow had puffed up

like a balloon and was very sore. He could not move his arm and he was screaming with pain.

When we came into the casualty section, the nurse at the front desk saw Tims arm and called a doctor.

This was very helpful as your casualty section was very busy and Tim could have been waiting for hours

to see a doctor. When the doctor saw Tim he said that the elbow was broken and out of joint, and he

would need an x-ray picture taken before the elbow could be straightened and put back in place.We then waited from 4:30 pm to 6:00 pm before Tim was taken to the x-ray section. The casualty sister

tried to contact the radiographer 3 times. However, he would not answer his pager. By this time, the

pain in the arm had become worse, spreading down the arm into the ngers. When Tim arrived at the x-

ray section he was taken straight into the x-ray room by the radiographer. I found the radiographer very

rude and his handling of Tim was very rough. Because of all the pain, Tim was nding it difcult to keep

his arm still. After the second x-ray the radiographer became annoyed with Tim and said, You must co-

operate and keep your arm still, otherwise you are wasting time and lms. With that he put some very

heavy bags on Tims arm and then took another two x-rays. All this made Tim scream even more with

pain.

When I got back to casualty the doctor immediately called in a specialist to see Tim. The specialist took

Tim to the operating room where he put some wires in to hold the bones together.

Tim has now left hospital, but he was very frightened when he had to have his arm x-rayed the second

time. Thankfully, this radiographer was more patient and kind.

My family has always used your hospital, and this is the rst time I have met any rudeness from a

member of your staff. Also, I have never had to wait such a long time for an x-ray before, especially with

someone in pain. My other son, Roger, broke his arm when he was 3, and there was no waiting for his

x-ray to be done.

I am bringing this to your attention so that you may investigate the matter.

With regards,

John Roberts


50/88


OET SAMPLE

X-Ray report

Patient: Tim Roberts

Region: Right elbow

MRN: 008 06 69

Date: 20 July 1997

There is a comminuted fracture involving the lower end of the humerus. The proximal humerus is displaced

anteriorly by 10 mm, with the distal fragment being displaced superiorly and tilted 30 degrees dorsally. On

the lateral, there is widening of the proximal radio-ulnar joint. On the AP the fragments are in anatomical

alignment. There is widening of the joint between the head of the radius and the capitulum.

Conclusion: A comminuted fracture of the lower end of the humerus with marked angulation and

displacement occurring at the fracture site. Damage to the radial artery and entrapment of the radial nerve

would have to be considered. A subluxation of the proximal radio-ulnar joint is present.

Dr K Snowgrass

Staff Radiologist

X-Ray report

Patient: Tim Roberts

Region: Right elbow

MRN: 008 06 69

Date: 22July 1997

There is a 5 mm displacement of the fragments with no overlapping. There is 20 degrees posterior tilting of

the distal fragments. There is less widening of the radio-ulnar joint, consistent with a minor subluxation or a

resolving haematoma. Two metallic pins are noted in the lower end of the humerus.

Dr P Phillips

Staff Radiologist

Patient log Radiographer: Peter Brown

Date: Saturday, 20/7/97

Time Examination/Patient Name/Ward/Comments Notication & Time

4.00 Mobile chest. Urgent. KINNEAR J D6a post cardiac surgery.

Left pneumothorax

Pager 3.55

4.10 Mobile chest. Urgent. ROWLES L D6a re-positioning of subclavian

catheter

Pager 3.55

4.25 Mobile chest. Urgent. HOBBS twin 1 Neonate ICU post insertion

of chest tube

Pager 4:15

4.45 Wrist. SMYTHE W Casualty

# mid radius

Phone 4.40

4.55 Mobile chest. Urgent. KINNEAR J D6a

Post insertion of chest tube

Pager 4.50

5.00 End of shift

Radiographer (Jeff K) has not arrived

5.10 Left leg. RAVEN P Casualty soccer injury None

5.15 Right shoulder. RYAN J Casualty

# clavicle

Phone 4.45

WRITING SUBTEST RADIOGRAPHERS


51/88


OET SAMPLE RADIOGRAPHERS WRITING SUBTEST

5.20 Jeff late for next shift

Arriving ? 6.30

Pager 5.20

5.25 Chest FILMER O B3b

Routine pre-op

5.30 Mobile chest. YOUNG L Adult ICU

Myocardial Infarct

Pager 5.25

5.40 Mobile abdomen. XIA Y Adult ICY

Insertion of NG tube

Phone 5.25

5.55 Right Ankle. HOWARD P Casualty

# tibia

None

6.00 Right elbow ROBERTS T Casualty

# humerus

Pager 5.50

6.25 Radiographer (Jeff) arrives to take over shift

Writing Task

Assume you are the radiographer (Peter Brown) involved in x-raying this patient. Dr Smith has

received the letter of complaint and has requested you to report to him with an explanation of the

events.

Using the information in the letter of complaint from the father, and the radiographers report, write a

letter to Dr Smith explaining your actions.

In your answer:






52/88


OET SAMPLE

Writing Test Speech PathologistsTime allowed: 40 minutes


You are working in a district hospital and have received a medical referral from an afliated Nursing Home to

re-assess a patient with severe, long-standing swallowing difculties.

Dysphagia Bedside assessment

Name: Helen Walsh

D.O.B.: 2/12/1965

Aetiology: Motor vehicle accidentNo signicant L.O.C.

Spinal injury at C2/3 level with dislocation of C2

Aphonia

Dysphagia. G.T. in situ

Onset: 12/4/1997

Physical: Quadraparesis affecting L> R side, arms > legs

Occupation: Bank Clerk (previously)

Assessment Results

Alert, co-operative

Hist. of recur. chest infectionshead control, needs posturing

Oral stage R weak & invol. movts of tong.

Lips, cheeks, jaw, S.P. NAD;

Drool sev +++;

Pharyn stage V.F. palsy

No effv cough vol. or invol.

No veloph, elen

No gag

Spon. sw. observed but infreq.

Delay initn of vol.sw ++

laryn. elevn

Aspn risk +++++

asst result = sev. impairments L.M.N., signs C.N. damage: C.N. IX, X and XII

NIL MOUTH

WRITING SUBTEST SPEECH PATHOLOGISTS


53/88


OET SAMPLE

Writing Task

Using the information in the assessment summary, write a letter to the referring doctor, Dr. A. Street,

Bayside Nursing Home, Bay City, 3153. Give your assessment of the patients swallowing skills with a

recommendation about the patients oral eating status.

In your answer:





SPEECH PATHOLOGISTS WRITING SUBTEST


54/88


Writing Test VeterinariansTime allowed: 40 minutes


Date: 2.1.97

Time of presentation: 10 pm

Owner: Mrs Dee

Animal: Fru-Fru, a 5-year-old female Terrier cross

(10kg)

History Vomiting and diarrhoea for 3 days. No appetite. Now very weak.

Clinical Findings Temp 38.5 C

10% dehydration estimated

Demeanour lethargic and depressed

Generalised muscle weakness

Weak pulse

Bradycardia (80 bpm)

Other Procedures Clinical Pathology:

Asostix BUN=20mg/dl PCV 48% TP 7.5 mg/dl Glucose 80mg/dlECG: very small P waves

tall spiked T waves

prolonged PR interval

Diagnosis Tentative Diagnosis: Hypoadrenocorticism (Addisons Disease)

DDx Acute pancreatitis. Renal failure. Gastroenteritis.

Treatment Pre-treatment Blood Samples collected for Lab analysis tomorrow.

IV indwelling catheter placed.

Given 1 litre 0.9% isotonic saline Doca (Desoxycorticosterone acetate) 2 mg IM.

Prednisolone Sodium Succinate IV.

Advised owner of need for further hospitalisation and monitoring at own vets.

Original blood sample to be analysed to conrm diagnosis.

Own vet to advise client of long-term treatment options.

OET SAMPLEWRITING SUBTEST VETERINARIANS


55/88


OET SAMPLE VETERINARIANS WRITING SUBTEST

Writing Task

You are a vet at an after-hours clinic and you are referring the client back to their own vet the next

morning. Write a letter of referral to Dr Black at Suburbia Veterinary Practice, Suburbia, 3773.

In your answer:






56/88


57/88


Subtest

SpeakingGeneralinformation

Time allocation:

approximately 20 minutes


This subtest is specic to each profession.

The subtest is a face-to-face interview where candidates are required to participate in two different role play situations

typical of their health profession area. The details of each role play are set out on two cue cards. Candidates take

the role of the health professional while the interviewer takes the role of the patient or client.

This subtest is in three parts:

1. Warm-up conversation

This is not assessed.

The purpose of the warm-up conversation is to explain the format of the test and to help the candidate to relax.

The interviewer will ask about areas of professional interest, previous work, reasons for coming to Australia,

future plans, etc.

2. First role play

The interviewer hands the candidate a role play card which the candidate reads carefully. Any questions are

to be asked and answered before the role play begins. The interviewer will nish the role play after about 5

minutes.

3. Second role play

The above procedure is repeated with a different role play.

The whole interview is recorded. It is important that the candidate and the interviewer speak clearly so that the

assessor can understand everything that is said. Two role plays are provided to ensure the assessment is fair. The

assessment is based on both role plays.


In the actual test, speaking is assessed by qualied, experienced English Language assessors who have been trained

in OET assessment procedures. The assessment is based on the following criteria:

overall communicative effectiveness

intelligibility

uency

appropriateness of language

resources of grammar and expression.


58/88


If the interlocutor (person who takes the role of the patient or client) is trained as an assessor, an assessment is made

during the role plays. If the interlocutor is not trained, the assessment is made in Australia after the test.

All candidate responses are double marked. Borderline tapes are marked by a third assessor.



role play cards for ten health professional areas

two complete role plays recorded on the audio tape. One of the role plays involves a doctor, and the other

a nurse. It is not possible to provide examples of all professions, but these interviews should provide a clear

idea of the procedures used in the interview.

Using the materials

Select the relevant role play.

Copy the information on to two cards.

Take the role of the health professional.

Ask a friend to play the role of a patient or client.

Ask another friend to observe the role play and give you feedback on your performance.

Read the information on the card carefully.

You have to deal with the case details as outlined on the card by asking and answering questions put to you

by the patient or client.

Speak as naturally as possible.

Remember it is important to be interested in the welfare of the patient and to reassure the patient or relationof the patient that the treatment being proposed is appropriate.

Keep to the time limit of 5 minutes (approximate) for each role play.

Ask a friend who observed for comments and feedback.


59/88

DENTISTS SPEAKING SUBTEST


OET SAMPLE

Candidates Card: Dentists

Setting Student Dental Service

Dentist This rst-year student is taking advantage of the cost-free check-up which your serviceoffers. You have just done a complete examination of his/her teeth and extra-oral areas

and have found nothing abnormal. There is some calculus/tartar on the teeth and some

inammation of the gums.

Task Tell the student the good news: no holes (because of uoride in the water). Point out that

tartar and gingivitis are present and explain how to brush teeth.

Roleplayers Card: Dentists

Setting Student Dental Service

Patient You started university this year and have decided to have a free check-up at the student

dental service. The last time you went to the dentist was 5 or 6 years ago, when your

mother took you along for a check-up. Youve never had any llings, and all you can

remember is losing your rst teeth.

The dentist has just given your teeth a complete examination.

Task Find out if there is any dental work that needs to be done on your teeth, and also what

you can do to look after your teeth. You hate the taste of toothpaste and feel ossing will

be too difcult.


60/88


OET SAMPLE

Candidates Card: Dietitians

Setting Outpatient Clinic

Dietitian Your patient is the parent of an 18 month old boy who is underweight. The patient tellsyou that the family follow a very healthy diet.

Task Find out what the child eats, and why it is important to the parent that the child stays thin

and has a low fat diet.

Explain to the parent that the child needs more energy to help it grow. Encourage the

parent to add more fat to the childs diet.

Roleplayers Card: Dietitians

Setting Outpatient Clinic

Patient You are the parent of an 18 month old boy. The local health clinic nurse has referred you

to a dietitian because your child is underweight. You are very aware of the importance

of eating healthy food and you and your partner and child follow a low fat diet using only

low-fat dairy products, no butter or margarine and little meat. Your father died of a heart

attack recently and you know that family history is one of the risk factors for developing

heart disease. You are determined to stay healthy and want to make sure your son does

too. You are also determined that your son will not grow up fat. You were fat as a child

and can remember how cruel other children were to you.

Task Tell the dietitian that you and your family follow a very healthy diet. Tell him/her about your

fathers death and your fears of developing heart disease and also you worry that your

son may end up being fat. Resist suggestions that you should introduce more fattening

foods to your sons diet.

SPEAKING SUBTEST DIETITIANS


61/88


Candidates Card: Doctors

Setting Suburban clinic, 11 pm

Doctor This parent has brought in his/her four-year-old child, Tom, who has been well, exceptfor one day of mild rhinorrhoea. This evening he developed a cough that sounded like a

dog barking. You diagnose mild croup.

Task You explain the illness and that there is no treatment. You reassure the parent that it

is common and usually harmless but give instructions as to when to seek immediate

attention.

Roleplayers Card: Doctors

Setting Suburban clinic, 11 pm

Patient You have brought your four-year-old child, Tom, in with you. Tom had a mild runny nose

through the day and this evening developed a cough. He went to bed as usual and

awoke with a terrible deep cough. He sounded like a barking dog. You feel very worried

about the cough and his breathing.

Task Seek reassurance from the doctor. Find out if it is dangerous and requires treatment.

Be really anxious.

OET SAMPLE DOCTORS SPEAKING SUBTEST


62/88


OET SAMPLE

Candidates Card: Nurses

Setting A hospital ward

Nurse You are talking to a 56-year-old patient, a heavy smoker who has just been admittedwith bronchitis.

Task Find out about the patients general background: family, habits and general health.

Also respond to the patients questions about giving up smoking. Give advice in a

positive and friendly way.

Roleplayers Card: Nurses

Setting A hospital ward

Patient You are a 56-year-old smoker who has been admitted to hospital with bronchitis. The

nurse is collecting information from you.

You live in your own home with your wife/husband, who is 50 years old, and you have

three teenage children living at home. You have smoked for 30 years and often had

chest infections.

You would like to give up smoking but have tried several times and have not succeeded.

Task Answer the nurses question about your family situation, and ask for advice about how to

give up smoking.

SPEAKING SUBTEST NURSES


63/88

ADA Guideline for infection control

Documents

Transcript of ADA Guideline for infection control