Station 31
Rose Ashburn
Age: 28 years old female
Patient
Patient's Story (Role player’s brief)
Patient’s Story
You are Rose Ashburn, a 28-year-old woman. You have booked a telephone consultation to request a sick note because your eczema flare-ups are making it difficult for you to cope at work.
Opening Statement: “Hi doctor, I was hoping to speak with you about getting a sick note”
IF ASKED TO EXPLAIN FURTHER:
You work as a nail technician and beautician in a beauty salon. 3 months ago, while attending to a client, the customer refused your service and made a comment about the appearance of your hands and elbows, which left you feeling self-conscious and upset. Since then, you have felt more anxious about your flares, and the condition has started to affect you psychologically. You find yourself constantly worrying about when the next eczema flare might happen — it’s something that’s always on your mind and affecting your peace of mind.
You are currently experiencing a flare that is starting to settle, but you still feel unable to face work and would like some time off to recover. You’re not entirely sure what triggers your eczema flares, but you have noticed that they tend to occur more frequently when you’re feeling mentally stressed. It often seems that any time you’re under emotional pressure, a flare follows shortly after.
If asked about the frequency of your flares: You usually experience around one flare every two months.
You haven’t noticed any other specific triggers and don’t believe your work directly contributes to your eczema flares.
If asked about emollient use: You explain that you tend to use them regularly only during a flare, but once the symptoms settle, you stop using them.
Social History: Non-smoker, no alcohol or illicit drug use, you live with your boyfriend, who has also commented on your eczema. Your relationship has been affected, as you tend to withdraw and avoid intimacy or social interaction during flares
Idea: You are not sure what is likely causing your flare.
Concerns: You are worried about having visible flares at work, particularly as they affect your confidence and ability to perform your job.
Expectations: You would like the GP to issue a sick note so you can take time off work while your eczema settles.
Say NO to any other questions asked outside of the details already provided in the scenario. Accept anything offered to you by the doctor.