Station 74
Michael O’Donoghue
Age: 50 year old male
Patient
Patient's Story (Role player’s brief)
Patient’s Story
You are Michael, a 50-year-old man concerned about a persistent cough that has lasted for three weeks. The cough is productive, bringing up yellowish phlegm which has stopped but you now see streaks of blood (only mention this if asked).
Opening Statement: “Hi doctor, I’ve had this cough for about three weeks now and I just don’t feel right. I thought I should call and see if I need antibiotics”.
Only say the following if asked:
You have occasionally noticed a small amount of blood in the sputum. You have also been feeling unusually tired and think you may have lost some weight, although you haven’t measured it.
Social History: You smoke 20 cigarettes a day and have done so for the past 30 years.
You live with a friend in his caravan, and you are a traveller. You are currently in the area but leaving today and are unsure where you will be going next, as you follow your friend around in his caravan.
Ideas: You think it’s probably a chest infection.
Concerns: You’re worried it could get worse if not treated.
Expectations: You are hoping to be prescribed antibiotics.
Say NO to any other questions asked outside of the details already provided in the scenario.
Important actions for the actor
Refuse to attend a face-to-face appointment if offered, explain that you are travelling out of the area today and won’t be able to come in. Only accept a follow-up phone call in 2–3 days’ time, once you’ve arrived at your new location. You can also agree to phone the surgery to inform them of your new whereabouts.
You should request antibiotics during the consultation. If the doctor does not prescribe them, politely ask for an explanation.