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Free OET Writing Sample Test with Answer Subtest Veterinary Science #18

Postoperative Wound Infection

Case Notes

Patient: “Rocky” — 3-year-old Labrador Retriever (Male, neutered)
Owner: Ms. Alisha Mehta
Date: 21 August 2025

History:

  • Neutered two weeks ago

  • Developed swelling and discharge from incision site

  • Owner noticed licking at wound

Examination:

  • Mild dehiscence and purulent discharge

  • Temperature: 39.8°C

  • Culture: E. coli (sensitive to amoxicillin-clavulanate)

Treatment:

  • Wound cleaned and flushed daily

  • Started oral antibiotics (Augmentin®)

  • E-collar applied

  • Healing gradual, but owner concerned about scar tissue

Plan:

  • Refer to surgical specialist for evaluation of tissue healing and prevention of adhesion

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.

Letter

To: Dr. Michael Lang, Veterinary Surgeon
From: Dr. Priya Sharma, DVM
Date: 21 August 2025
Re: “Rocky” — 3-year-old Labrador, postoperative wound infection

 

Dear Dr. Lang,

I am referring Rocky, a 3-year-old neutered Labrador, for assessment of a postoperative wound complication following routine castration two weeks ago.

Despite daily wound cleaning and oral antibiotic therapy, Rocky’s incision site shows delayed healing with mild dehiscence. Culture revealed E. coli sensitive to Augmentin®, which controlled the infection but left residual thickening and raised concerns about adhesion.

Given your expertise in soft-tissue surgery, I would appreciate your opinion on further wound management and strategies to optimize tissue recovery. Ms. Mehta is committed to all postoperative care instructions.

Please advise if additional debridement or imaging is warranted.

Yours sincerely,
Dr. Priya Sharma, DVM

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