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Pharmacy

Read the following information.

Free OET Writing Sample Test with Answer Subtest Pharmacy #13

OET Pharmacy Writing (Osteoarthritis & NSAID Side Effects)

Case Notes:

  • Patient: Mr. James O’Connor, 72 yrs

  • Condition: Osteoarthritis – knee pain (chronic, worsening over last 5 yrs)

  • Current medication: Ibuprofen 400mg TDS (taken for last 4 months)

  • Relief: Moderate, but not complete pain control

  • Side effects: Reports heartburn, stomach pain, nausea (daily for past 2 weeks)

  • Past medical history: Hypertension (controlled with Ramipril 5mg OD)

  • No prior history of ulcers, no GI bleeding reported

  • Lifestyle: Retired, moderate walking, non-smoker, occasional alcohol

  • Concern: Pain relief adequate but worried about stomach irritation

  • Pharmacy notes: Discussed potential GI risks of NSAIDs; advised to consult doctor

  • Request: Suggest safer pain management strategy.

Writing Task: In your answer:

  • Expand the relevant notes into complete sentences.

  • Do not use note form.

  • Use letter format.

  • The body of the letter should be approximately 180–200 words.

To: Dr. Patel

Dear Dr. Patel,

I am writing regarding Mr. James O’Connor, a 72-year-old patient with chronic osteoarthritis of the knees, who has been taking Ibuprofen 400mg three times daily for pain management over the last four months.

Although the medication has provided some pain relief, Mr. O’Connor recently reported frequent stomach discomfort, including heartburn and nausea, persisting for the past two weeks. He has no history of ulcers or gastrointestinal bleeding but does have controlled hypertension, managed with Ramipril.

Given his age and comorbidities, I am concerned about the continued use of NSAIDs in his case. I would recommend reviewing his pain management plan and considering either switching to a safer analgesic, such as acetaminophen, or prescribing a gastroprotective agent should NSAID therapy be continued.

Your input will be valuable in balancing effective pain control with gastrointestinal safety.

Yours sincerely,
[Pharmacist’s Name]

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