Occupational English Test – Writing (Nursing)
Read the case notes below and complete the writing task which follows.
Notes:
Jessica Morris was admitted to the hospital with symptoms of severe abdominal pain and nausea. After a thorough examination, she underwent an emergency appendectomy. She is currently recovering well and you are her charge nurse.
Today’s Date: 29 July 2024
Patient Details:
- Name: Mrs. Jessica Morris.
- Age: 42 years.
- Husband: David (45), works as an accountant, very supportive, present during admission.
- Children: Two children (ages 8 and 10), well-cared for by husband during hospitalization.
- Hobbies: Gardening, cooking.
- Lifestyle: No smoking or drinking habits; active lifestyle, enjoys family activities.
- Address: 112 Maple Street, Sydney.
- Admitted: City Hospital, Sydney, 27 July 2024.
- Discharge: 30 July 2024.
Diagnosis
Medical Background:
- Past Medical History: No significant past medical issues; no known allergies.
- Current Medications: Ceftriaxone 1 g IV once daily for 5 days; Paracetamol 500 mg orally every 6 hours as needed for pain; Antiemetics: Ondansetron 4 mg orally every 8 hours as needed for nausea
Nursing Management and Progress:
- Surgical Procedure: Appendectomy performed on 27 July 2024.
- Wound Care: Dressing on surgical site to be changed daily; site should be kept clean and dry.
- Pain Management: Regular analgesics administered; pain level consistently managed with current medication.
- Observation: Monitoring for signs of infection or complications; no signs of fever or abnormal discharge noted
Assessment:
- Recovery progressing well. No signs of infection / complications.
- Pain Manageable (current analgesics); Patient reports minimal discomfort.
- Mobility: Ambulating (with minimal support); vitals stable, within normal ranges.
Discharge Plan:
- Continue to keep the surgical site clean and dry; monitor for signs of infection such as increased redness or swelling.
- Continue Ceftriaxone and Paracetamol as prescribed; ensure completion of antibiotic course.
- Avoid heavy lifting, strenuous activities, intense physical exertion (at least 2 weeks).
- Follow-Up Appointment in one week to assess recovery and remove stitches if necessary.
- Provide husband with detailed instructions on wound care and medication management.
- Ensure adequate support at home for patient’s recovery and assist with childcare if needed.
Writing Task:
Using the information in the case notes, write a letter to Zelda Denizen, Community Health Nurse, 15 Walter’s Street, Sydney, who will be responsible for Mrs. Morris’ continued care at her home.
In your letter:
- 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.
