OET Baby – Social Worker Case Notes

Occupational English Test – Nursing

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

Notes:

Imagine that today’s date is 19 March 2025. Emily is a patient in your care at City Hospital.

Patient Details:

• Name: Emily Rose Carter.
• Date of Birth: 15 December 2024.
• Age: 3 months.
• Parents: Mrs Su Carter, Mr Peter Carter (both mentally unstable following the death of their elder daughter).

18 March, 2025

• Brought to the emergency department by a neighbor.
• Signs of neglect: malnourishment, poor hygiene, untreated diaper rash.
• Weak cry, lethargy, dehydration.
• Underweight for age.

Tests and Diagnosis:

• Blood tests: Low hemoglobin, mild anemia, dehydration markers present.
• Growth chart assessment: Below expected weight percentile.
• Skin examination: Severe diaper rash with secondary bacterial infection.
• General assessment: Signs of neglect and inadequate care.

Treatment Given:

• IV fluids administered for dehydration.
• Nutritional supplementation started.
• Antibiotics prescribed for secondary skin infection.
• Pediatric and social work team involved.

Current Medication:

• Oral iron supplements (Ferrous sulfate)
• Topical antibiotic cream for diaper rash
• Nutritional supplementation (high-calorie formula)

Discharge Plan:

• Discharged today into the care of child protective services.
• Temporary foster care arranged.
• Follow-up with pediatrician in 1 week.
• Ongoing monitoring of weight gain and nutritional intake.
• Social worker to conduct a home assessment for parents.
• Parenting support and education to be arranged for parents if deemed appropriate.
• Possible long-term foster care or alternative arrangements based on investigation outcome.

Writing Task:

Write a letter to a social worker for arranging necessary follow-up actions required for the patient’s well-being. Address the letter to Ms. Rebecca Collins, Senior Social Worker, Child Welfare Department, Greenwood Community Services.