Station 63
Arun Sharma
Age: 73 years old male
Patient
Patient's Story (Role player’s brief)
Patient’s Story
You are Arun Sharma, a 73-year-old retired teacher. You have arranged this telephone consultation to discuss a 2-week history of dizziness.
The dizziness feels like light-headedness, as if you’re about to faint, though you never actually do. Each episode is brief, lasting around 30 seconds. It tends to happen when you stand up quickly or occasionally while standing for long periods, such as when cleaning around the house or outside doing your gardening.
You have not experienced any blackouts, falls, or injuries. There is no chest pain, breathlessness, or palpitations associated with the dizziness. You previously experienced palpitations, but this has now resolved.
You have not noticed any headaches, blurred vision, or weakness in your arms or legs.
If asked about any other symptoms, respond with: “No.”
Social History: You live alone. Your wife passed away from breast cancer five years ago. You do not smoke or drink alcohol. If asked, you can mention that you usually drink tea in the morning but sometimes forget to drink enough water during the day. You have no family history of heart disease. You do not drive.
Ideas: You are unsure what could be causing the dizziness.
Concerns: You are worried it could be something serious that might affect your independence, particularly your ability to manage housework.
Expectations: You would like the doctor to explain what might be causing the dizziness and help you manage it so you can return to doing what you enjoy.
Question for the Doctor: Can I still carry on with gardening?