OET Speaking Nurse Role Play Card – Shortness of Breath
The OET Speaking test for Nurses can be challenging, especially when dealing with patients who present with breathing difficulties. This Shortness of Breath role-play scenario is designed to help nurses confidently practice one of the most critical and commonly tested OET speaking situations.
In this scenario, you will take the role of a nurse in an emergency or clinical setting, interacting with a patient who is experiencing shortness of breath and feels anxious about their condition. This scenario tests your ability to remain calm, gather essential information, reassure the patient, and explain the need for urgent medical assessment without causing alarm — a key OET examiner focus.
Setting: Emergency Room / Clinic
Role Player (Patient)
- 45-year-old patient experiencing shortness of breath
- Symptoms started suddenly and feel worse with activity
- Patient feels anxious and is struggling to speak in full sentences
- Has a history of asthma (or respiratory condition)
- Worried and asks if the condition is serious
Candidate (You – Nurse)
- Assess the severity and onset of breathing difficulty
- Ask about past respiratory history and triggers
- Check for associated symptoms such as chest tightness or wheezing
- Remain calm and reassure the patient
- Explain the need for urgent medical assessment
- Avoid diagnosing or alarming the patient
- Close the interaction professionally
How to Practice This OET Speaking Role Play
Read the role play card above carefully, just like in the real OET exam. Then use the audio recorder below to record your nurse response, speaking naturally and professionally. Start with empathy, ask relevant questions, avoid diagnosing or promising medication, explain the next steps clearly, and end with reassurance.
If you need help, you can download the practice PDF, read the answer script, and practice once or twice. Then come back to this page and record your voice again. You may repeat this process as many times as needed.
Click Record below and practice your response for this Shortness of Breath scenario.