Station 16
Philip Gorman
Age: 68 years old male
Patient
Patient's Story (Role player’s brief)
Patient’s Story
You are Andy Gorman, the brother, next of kin, and Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) for health and finance for Philip Gorman.
You are calling today to discuss recent concerns about Philip’s health. Staff at the care home have noticed that over the past 2–3 weeks, Philip appears to be losing weight, and his clothes no longer fit properly.
In the last three days, carers observed blood mixed with his stools on two occasions, and Philip has also complained of pain on the left side of his tummy. His stools can be loose and sometimes normal. A nurse attempted to examine him, but he refused.
You were told by the nurse that his recent BP: 112/70 mmHg, Pulse: 72 bpm (taken two days ago)
Only mention the following if directly asked:
His weight was 81kg three months ago, and he is now 72kg
You have tried speaking to Philip yourself, and while he’s not in distress, he doesn’t want anything done and seems more settled when left alone.
If asked about family history of bowel cancer: Your uncle died of bowel cancer, and your aunt had it as well.
Social History: He lives in a care home and has severe learning disability. He is non-verbal. He does not smoke or drink alcohol.
Ideas: You’re unsure what’s causing the problem, but the nurse at the care home is concerned about bowel cancer.
Concerns: You looked after a close friend with bowel cancer, and saw firsthand the burden of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. You found it extremely stressful, and you would not want Philip to go through anything invasive or aggressive if it can be avoided.
Expectations: You would like to know what’s going on and discuss possible options for managing his situation moving forward.
If asked about any other symptoms, respond: “No, there’s nothing else I’m aware of.”