Station 62
John Harris
Age: 58 years old male
Patient
Patient's Story (Role player’s brief)
Patient’s Story
You are John Harris, a 58-year-old man. You have arranged this consultation to discuss a 3-month history of persistent pain in the right lower back, near the kidney area. The pain radiates towards the front of your abdomen and has not resolved.
Opening statement: Hi Doctor, I’ve been having this burning pain in my lower right back for about three months now. It goes around to the front of my tummy, and it’s really starting to bother me, especially at night when I’m trying to sleep
If asked to explore more about the pain: The pain is burning in nature and has been interfering with your sleep due to discomfort. It is not worsened by movement or physical activity, but resting does not significantly relieve it either. Occasionally, the pain can be triggered by touch.
You have tried paracetamol and ibuprofen gel, but neither has provided meaningful relief. There is no history of trauma.
You had shingles affecting the right side of your body three months ago. It was treated with antiviral medication and the rash has since resolved. There are no new rashes or blisters present but the pain persist.
Social History: You work as a car mechanic. Your job involves moderate physical activity, including bending and lifting. You do not smoke or consume alcohol. You live at home with your wife.
Ideas: You are unsure what is causing the pain, although it feels similar to when you had shingles, but this time, there is no rash.
Concerns: The pain is disrupting your sleep and causing increasing concern.
Expectations: You’d like the GP to offer good pain relief and maybe find the cause of the problem.
Say NO to any other questions asked outside of the details already provided in the scenario. Accept anything offered to you by the doctor.