Nurses Writing Task 1

Read the case notes below and complete the writing task which follows

Time allowed: 40 minutes

Today's Date

25/07/09

Notes

Vamuya Obeki was admitted through the Children's Emergency Department for acute
meningoencephalitis as a result of a complication following mumps.

Patient History

Address: 32 Sexton St, Ekibin

Phone: (07) 38485555
Date of Birth: 23 May 2005
Admitted: 15th July 2009
Gender: Male

Discharged: 25th July 2009

Country of birth: Sudan
Diagnosis: acute meningoencephalitis

Social History

Parents: Miri & Abdullah Obeki, refugees, arrived in Australia in 2008.

Employment: Abdullah: Golden Circle pineapple factory, shift worker
Miri: housewife
Accommodation: Recently moved to rental accommodation
GP: No family doctor
Sibling: 2 year old brother, Saeed
Language: Dinka, Arabic
Interpreter needs: Abdullah understands spoken English but has limited written skills. Miri has
limited understanding of English. Abdullah attends English classes.

Medical History

Parents state that both children had some kind of vaccination at birth but the vaccination record has
been lost. Parents unaware of vaccine for Mumps.
Discharge Plan

Appears to have fully recovered from mumps and acute meningoencephalitis.

Will need advice on recommended vaccines for both children.
Will need neurological check-up.

Writing Task

Using the information in the case notes, write a letter to The Director, Community Child Health
Service, 41 Jones Street, Ekibin, requesting follow-up of this family.

In your answer:

• Expand the relevant case notes into complete sentences

• Do not use note form
• The body of the letter should not be more than 200 words
• Use correct letter format
ANSWER １

25th July 2009

The Director
Community Child Health Service
41 Jones Street
Ekibin

Dear Sir/Madam,

Re: Vamuya Obeki

I am writing to refer Vamuya, a 4year-old child and his family to you. He was admitted to our
hospital on the 15th of July through the Children’s Emergency Department with the diagnosis of
acute meningoencephalitis following mumps. He is due to be discharged today.

He was born in Sudan and arrived in Australia in 2008 with his parents and a 2 year-old little brother
as refugees. They recently moved to rental accommodation. Their only income is made by his
father, Abdullah, who is employed as a factory shift worker. This family has no family doctor now.
As well as this, they have a language barrier. His father can understand spoken English but his
mother, Miri, has limited understanding of English.

During his stay in hospital, he has fully recovered from the mumps and meningoencephalitis.
However he will need a neurological check –up. For both children, the advice on recommended
vaccines will be needed.

I hope you will be able to arrange someone who can help this family and provide proper medical
support. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any further information about this
family.

Yours sincerely,
Nurse
189 words
 Writing Task 2 Nurses

Time allowed: 40 minutes

Today's Date

13/09/09

Notes

Ms Nicole Smith is an 18 year old woman who has just given birth to her first child at the Spirit
Mothers’ Hospital in Brisbane. You are the nurse looking after her.

Patient Details

Address: Flat 4, Matthews Street, West End 4101

Phone: (07) 3441 3257

Date of Birth: 4 September 1991

Admitted: 9th September 2009

Discharged: 13th September 2009

Marital Status: Single

Country of birth: Australia

Social Background

Nicole is single and has had no contact with father of child for six months. She does not know his
current address.
No family members in Brisbane. Parents and sister live in Rockhampton. Does not currently have
contact with them.
Lives in a rental share flat with one other woman.
Currently receives sole parent benefits.

Feels very isolated and insecure. Doubts her ability to be a good mother and has talked about
offering the baby for adoption.

Medical History

General health good

Had appendicectomy at 15 years
Non-smoker
No alcohol or illicit drug use.
No drug or other allergies

Obstetric History

First pregnancy
Attended for first antenatal visit at 16 weeks gestation.
8 antenatal visits in total.
No antenatal complications.

Birth details

Presented to hospital at 1900hrs on 9th September

Contracting 1:10mins
1st stage of labour: 16 hrs
Mode of delivery: Emergency Caesarean Section
Reason: Fetal distress and failure to progress.

Baby Details

DOB: 10th September 2009

Time: 1120hrs
Sex: Male
Weight: 4.4 kg
Apgar Score: 6 at 1 min, 9 at 5 mins
Resusitation: O2 only for few minutes

Postnatal Progress

Maternal post partum haemorrhage of 800mls

Blood loss now minimal
Wound: Clean and dry
Haemoglobin on 12/09/08: 90 g/L
Started on Fefol (Iron supplement) and Vitamin C
Started breast feeding but not confident. Prefers to change to bottle feeding.
Not confident in bathing and caring for baby

Baby weight at discharge: 4.1 kg

Feeding well
No jaundice

Writing Task
Using the information in the case notes, write a letter to The Director, Community Child Health
Service, 41 Vulture Street, West End, Brisbane 4101 requesting a home visit to provide advice and
assistance for Nicole and her baby.

In your answer:

• Expand the relevant case notes into complete sentences

• Do not use note form
• The body of the letter should not be more than 200 words
• Use correct letter format
 Task 2 Model Letter: Nicole Smith
The Director
Community Child Health Service
41 Vulture Street
West End, 4101

Dear Sir/Madam

Re: Ms Nicole Smith

DOB: 04/09/1991

I am writing to refer this patient, an 18-year-old single mother who delivered a baby boy on the
10/09/09. Nicole had difficulty with vaginal delivery which took 16 hours of labour. Therefore, due to
fetal distress and progress failure an emergency caesarean section was performed.

The baby is progressing quite well with breast feeding and is gaining weight and is currently 4.4kg.
Fefol and Vitamin C were prescribed to Nicole as her blood examination revealed low numbers in
her hemoglobin from blood loss.

Nicole has no relatives in Brisbane and no contact with her family or the father of the baby. She
lives in a rented flat with one other young woman and is on a single mother’s pension.

My main concern is that she does not believe she has the ability to breastfeed, bathe or care for her
baby and is considering adoption. It would be greatly appreciated if you could organise a home visit
for Nicole and the baby. Nicole requires appropriate advice and assistance to encourage her to
develop parenting skills due to her isolated circumstances.

Thank you for agreeing to assist in this matter. Should you require any further information, please
do not hesitate to contact me.

Yours sincerely,

Charge Nurse
Spirit Mother’s Hospital
201 words
 Writing Task 3 Nurses

Time allowed: 40 minutes

Today's date

10/07/09

Notes

Betty Olsen is a resident at the Golden Pond Retirement Village. She needs urgent admission to
hospital. You are the night nurse looking after her.

Patient Details

Address: Golden Pond Retirement Village

83 Waterford Rd, Annerley, 4101

Phone: (07) 3441 3257

Date of Birth: 29/01/1926

Marital Status: Widowed

Country of birth: Australia

Social History

Moved to Retirement Village following the death of husband in December 2007.

Next of kin: Son, Nicholas Olsen,

53 Palmer Street, Warwick 4370
Ph (07) 4693 6552.

Normally alert and orientated. Enjoys bridge, bingo and reading.

Medical History

Hypothyroidism since 1997

Hypertension since 2003
Glaucoma since 2004
Allergic to penicillin
Prescription Medications

Karvea 150mg 1 daily

Oroxine 0.1mg 1 daily am
Timoptol Eye Drops 0.5% 1drop each eye am & pm
Normison 10 mg as required

Non prescription Medication

Golden Glow Glucosamine Tablet - 1 with breakfast for arthritis

Vitamin C Complex Sustained Release – 1 with breakfast

Mobility / Aids

Independent with walking stick. Arthritis in hands. Wears glasses

Continence: Requires continence pad

Recent Nursing Notes

16/05/09
Flu vaccination

29/06/09
Complaining of indigestion following evening meal. Settled with Mylanta

07/07/09
Unable to sleep – aches in shoulder. Settled following 2 Panadol and 1 Normison

09/07/09
Requested Mylanta for indigestion,Panadol for shoulder pain – slept poorly

10/07/09 am
Tired and feeling generally weak. BP 180/95. Confined to bed. GP called and will visit 11/7/08 after
surgery.

10/07/09 pm
Didn’t eat evening meal. Says felt slightly nauseous. Trouble sleeping, complaining of shoulder and
neck pain. BP 175/95 Given 1 Normison 2 Panadol at 10pm
Rechecked 10.45pm – Distressed, pale and sweaty, complaining of persistent chest pain,
BP 190/100. Ambulance called and patient transferred.

Writing Task

Write a letter for the admitting doctor of the Spirit Hospital Emergency Department. Give the recent
history of events and also the patient’s past medical history and condition.
In your answer:

• Expand the relevant case notes into complete sentences

• Do not use note form
• The body of the letter should not be more than 200 words
• Use correct letter format
 Task 3 Model letter: Betty Olsen

10 July 2009

The Admission Doctor

The Spirit Hospital
Emergency Department

Dear Doctor,

Re: Mrs Betty Olsen

DOB: 29/01/1926

I am writing regarding Mrs Olsen, an elderly woman suffering from chest pain who has been
transferred to your hospital via ambulance.

She is a resident of Golden Pond Retirement Village. Her husband died in December 2008 and she
has a son who lives in Warwick. She was diagnosed with hypothyroidism in 1997, hypertension in
2003 and glaucoma in 2004.

Mrs. Olsen is currently on prescription medication which includes: karvea 150 mg daily, orixine 0.1
mg daily, timoptol eye drops 0.5% twice a day and normison 10 mg as required. She also takes non
prescription medication which includes: golden glow glucosamine tablet one daily and vitamin C
complex sustained release with breakfast. Please also note, she has an allergy to penicillin.

Last night she refused her dinner because she felt slightly nauseous. She had trouble sleeping and
complained of shoulder and neck pain. Her condition has further deteriorated today and normison
and two Panadol tablets were given at 10 pm. When I checked on her at 10.45 pm, Mrs. Olsen was
distressed, pale and sweaty and complaining of persistent chest pain. Her blood pressure was
190/100 mmHg.

I would appreciate your assessment and emergency management of this patient’s condition.

Yours sincerely,

Night Nurse
Golden Pond Retirement Village

Word Count: 199 words

 Writing Task 4 Nurses

Time allowed: 40 minutes

Today's Date

01/08/09

Notes

You are Sarina Chai, a registered nurse at the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital (RBWH).
Maeve Greerson is a patient in your care.

Patient Details

Name: Maeve Greerson

Address: Unit 6, 45 Walter St, Holland Park 4121
Phone: (07) 3942 1658
Date of Birth: 9 October 1951
Country of birth: Australia

Social HistoryWidowed, no children.

Next of kin: Brian Hewson (brother) 67 Bridge Street, Toowoomba Ph (07) 4693 6558.
Family and patient have requested no further treatments be used, other than those necessary to
maintain comfort and dignity and to relieve pain.

Medical History

March 2009: Laparotomy. Found to have cancer of the lower intestine with wide spread metastases.
Partial bowel resection and colostomy performed.
April 2009: 6 weeks radiation therapy for relief of symptoms.
Prognosis: Not expected to survive more than 3 – 4 months.

24/07/09
Admitted to RBWH following collapse at home. Dehydration, nausea, severe pain
IV fluids commenced - transdermal patch for pain, light low fibre foods only.

25/07/09.
Nausea less severe – tolerating jelly, low fat yoghurt
Occasional break through pain – pain medication increased
Severe oedema of ankles and lower legs, bladder incontinence.
Does not feel she will recover sufficiently to leave hospital. Requests visit from Social Worker

28/07/09
Generally pain free, very weak and disorientated at times. Rejecting solids but able to tolerate fluids
- requests apple juice and lemonade.
Social Worker contacted brother. Advises place available at Glen Haven Hospice in Toowoomba
from 1 August 2008.

01/08/09

Transferred via ambulance to Glen Haven Hospice

Writing Task

Using the information in the case notes, write a letter to the Director of Nursing, Glen Haven
Palliative Care Hospice, 971 Arthur Street, Toowoomba, introducing this patient. Using the relevant
case notes, give her background, medical history and treatment required.

In your answer:

• Expand the relevant case notes into complete sentences

• Do not use note form
• The body of the letter should not be more than 200 words
• Use correct letter format
ANSWER ４

1 August, 2009

The Director of Nursing

Glen Haven Palliative Care Hospice
971 Arthur Street
Toowoomba

Dear Sir/Madam,

Re: Mrs. Maeve Greerson

I am referring this patient, a 58- year-old terminally ill widow, who has been under our care for the
treatment of cancer. She was transferred to your centre for further care this morning.

She has had lower intestine cancer since March, 2009. When admitted to this hospital she
complained of dehydration, nausea and severe pain. She has received IV fluids and transdermal
patch for pain. She has been told to take light, low fiber foods and has been visited by a social
worker.

Over the past week, she has remained free from severe pain and has been able to tolerate a fluid
diet. Mrs. Greerson has had radiation therapy for six weeks and her life expectancy is only 3 – 4
months. Therefore, she and her only relative, her brother Mr. Brian Hewson have made the
decision that she would only receive treatment for pain and comfort.

Based on the advice of a social worker, her brother has requested that Mrs. Greerson be
transferred to your centre. As she is in morbid condition, please make an arrangement to provide
prioritized care.

Thank you for agreeing to assist in this matter. Should you require any more information, please do
not hesitate to contact me.

Yours sincerely,

Sarina Chai

Charge Nurse.

206 words
 Writing Task 5 Nurses

Time allowed: 40 minutes

Today's Date

09/09/09

Notes

You are Lee Wong a registered nurse in the Coronary Care Unit, St Andrews Hospital Brisbane. Bill
O’Riley is a patient in your care.

Patient Details

Name: Bill O’Riley

DOB 12 January 1956
Address 9476 Old Dam Road, Goondiwindi Q4390
Next of Kin Brother, Ernie O’Riley 72 Burke St, Cunnamulla Q4490

Admitted 2 September 2009

Diagnosis Obstructive coronary artery disease
Operation Coronary artery bipass grafts (x 4) on 4th September 2008

Social History
• Never married
• Lives alone in own home just outside Goondiwindi
• Fencing contractor

Medical History
• Smokes 20 cigarettes/day
• Alcohol: 2 x 300ml bottles beer / day
• Ht 170cm Wt 99kg
• Usual diet: sausages, deep fried chips, eggs, MacDonalds
• Allergic reaction to nuts

Nursing Management and Progress

• Routine post operative recovery
• Advised to cease smoking, reduce alcohol
• Low fat diet
• Walking well
• Wounds healing well
• Routine visit from Social Worker
Discharge Plan
• Returning Home to Goondiwindi
• Appointment made for follow up visit to local GP Dr. Avril Jensen 2pm 15/9/09
• Local physiotherapist to continue rehabilitation exercise program

Writing Task

Mr O’Riley has requested advice on low fat dietary guidelines and healthy simple recipes. Write a
letter to the Community Information Section of the Heart Foundation, Gregory Terrace, Brisbane on
the patient's behalf. Use the relevant case notes to explain Mr O’Riley’s situation and the
information he needs. Include Medical History, Body Mass Index and lifestyle. Information should
be sent to his home address.

In your answer:

• Expand the relevant case notes into complete sentences

• Do not use note form
• The body of the letter should not be more than 200 words
• Use correct letter format
ANSWER ５

15/09/2009

The Heart Foundation Centre

Community Information Section
Gregory Terrace
Brisbane

Dear Sir/Madam,

Re: Mr. Bill O’ Riley

I am writing with regard to Mr. O’Riley, a 53 –year- old- man, who was admitted the hospital on the
2nd of September and diagnosed with obstructive coronary artery disease. He underwent a
coronary artery bypass graft on the 4th of September.

Mr. 0’Riley has a history of smoking (20 cigarettes per day) and drinks on a regular basis. His body
mass index is high and he usually eats fatty, rich foods.

After the surgery, Mr. O’Riley has attained a routine post operative recovery. He has been advised
to stop smoking and to reduce alcohol consumption. He also has been told to follow a low fat diet
and has been receiving attention from a social worker. His wounds are healing and he is walking
well.

After he is discharged from the hospital, Mr. O’Riley needs to go for a follow- up visit to a local
general practitioner and to continue a rehabilitation exercise program.

In order to maintain a good health condition, Mr. O’Riley has requested advice on low, fat dietary
guidelines and healthy, simple recipes. It would be greatly appreciated if you could send the above
mentioned information to Mr. O’Riley at his home address, 9476 Old Dam Road, Goondiwindi, QLD,
4390.

Yours sincerely,
Lee Wong
Charge Nurse

Word Count: 204 words

 Task 6 Case Notes: Robyn Harwood
Time allowed: 40 minutes

Today’s date: 12/07/11

You are Sonya Matthews, a registered nurse at the Spirit Hospital. Robyn Harwood is a patient in
your care. Read the case notes below and complete the writing task which follows.

Patient Details

Name: Robyn Harwood

Address: 8 Peach St, New Farm
Phone: (07) 3397 2695
Date of Birth: 4 February 1950

Social Background

Marital status: Widow. No children. Lives alone

Next of kin: Megan Mack (Niece)
Niece lives with husband in Sydney who works as software engineer for Google Australia. Sister
died recently. No other relatives.

Medical History

Diabetes Mellitus Type 2

Metformin 500mg mane

Diagnosis

Right partial rotator cuff tear

Presented to Spirit hospital with pain and weakness in the right shoulder, especially when lifting
arm overhead.
Descending stairs at home and slipped, falling onto outstretched arm.
Xray and MRI showed a partial rotator cuff tear.
Orthopaedic surgeon discussed surgery. Patient prefers to try non-surgical treatment.
Date of admission: 30-06-2011
Date of discharge: 12-07-2011

Treatment

Ibuprofen orally QID

Cortisone injections
Daily physiotherapy

Nursing Care Needs

Needs blood glucose level monitoring 4 hourly

May be elevated because of cortisone
Needs assistance with shower and housework
Orthopaedic review on 01/08/11

WRITING TASK
Using the information in the case notes, write a letter to the Nursing Director Ms. Jenny Attard of
the Community Home Care Agency, requesting visits from the home care nurse.
In your letter:

• Do not use note form.

• Expand on the relevant case notes to explain his background and medical history and the
assistance requested.
• The letter should be 15-20 lines long.
• No more than the first 25 lines will be assessed.
 Task 6 Model Letter

12/07/2011

Ms. Jenny Attard

The Nursing Director
Community Home Care Agency
Brisbane

Dear Ms. Attard

Re: Ms. Robyn Harwood

DOB: 04/02/1950

I am writing to request daily home visits by the Blue Nurses to provide care and support for this
patient, a 61 year-old widow who lives on her own.

Ms. Harwood was admitted to our hospital on the June 30 with a diagnosis of right rotator cuff tear
following a fall while descending stairs. Therefore, surgery has been suggested, however, she
prefers non-surgical treatment. She has received ibuprofen and cortisone as prescribed and also
daily visits by a physiotherapist.

In terms of her medical history, she suffers from type 2 diabetes mellitus for which she is taking
metformine 500mg. However, following her discharge, she will need regular monitoring of her blood
glucose level which may become elevated due to administration of cortisone during hospitalisation.
She will also require assistance in showering and home help. As well as this, her condition needs to
be reviewed by an orthopaedic surgeon on August 1.

Ms. Harwood lives alone and has no children. Her next of kin is her niece, Megan Mack who lives in
Sydney. Regrettably, she has no relatives or friends to support her.

Please contact me if you require further information regarding this patient.

Yours sincerely,

Sonya Matthews

Registered Nurse

Spirit Hospital
 Task 7 Case Notes

Time allowed: 40 minutes

Read the case notes below and complete the writing task which follows:
You are a nurse with the Blue Skies Home Nursing Centre. You visited this patient at home today
for the first time following a referral from the Mater Public Hospital. He was discharged from
hospital on 17.3.08.

Name: Henry O’Keefe

Address: 12 Donaldson Street, Greenslopes 4121
Phone: (07) 3941 2267
Date of Birth: 2 February 1925
Admitted: 14.3.08
Diagnosis: Malignant Melanoma Left Shoulder

Medical History

Large lesion successfully removed 14.3.08.

Discharged 17.3.08
Needs assistance with showering and to dress wound prior to removal of sutures at Mater Public
Hospital on 24.3.08

Family History

Married aged pensioner. Lives in housing commission home with wife Dorothy also an aged
pensioner. No children

18.3.08.
1st Home visit

Showered patient. Wound dressed – healing satisfactory no sign of infection

Balance a little shaky - complaining of increased arthritic pains in hands and legs.
Currently taking Glucosamine & Chondroitin Supplement recommended by GP. Pain relieved with
2 Panadol 3 times daily. Confused about why he had operation.
Dorothy concerned about future. Tells you she will be 83 in August. Says Henry has not been
himself since the surgery. Keeps forgetting things. She finds it difficult to manage the house and
garden. Neighbours are helping with shopping. Kitchen and bathroom disordered - trouble finding
clean towels – dishes piled in sink, bed unmade.

19.3.08

Henry showered and wound dressed. Still a little unbalanced. Rests most of the day. Does not
remember being showered yesterday. House still disorganised, washing piled up in bathroom.
Dorothy says she would be lost without help from neighbours who also appear to be cooking meals
for the couple.

Concerns: Provided there are not complications with the wound healing, your role in providing
nursing care ends when sutures are removed on 24 March. You consider that Jim and Dorothy
need to be assessed for further on-going assistance in managing the house and garden and with
shopping and the preparation of cooking.

Plan: Request a home visit by the Aged Care Assessment Team as soon as possible to fully
assess their needs and to arrange for appropriate further assistance to be provided.

WRITING TASK
Using the information in the case notes, write a letter to The Director, Aged Care Assessment
Team, Brisbane South Region, 78 Masterson St. Acacia Ridge, Brisbane 4110. Explain why you
are writing and what types of assistance may be required.

• Do not use note form in the letter

• Expand the relevant case notes into full sentence
• Write between 180-200 words
 Task 7 Model Letter

The Director
Aged Care Assessment Team
78 Masterson Street
Brisbane

Dear Sir/Madam,

Re: Mr. Henry O’Keefe

I am writing to requesting aged care assistance for Mr. O’Keefe, an 83- year-old man who is
recovering from a malignant melanoma in his left shoulder.

Mr. O’Keefe was admitted to the Mater Public Hospital on the 14th of March and underwent surgery.
Since his discharge from the hospital, we have been doing daily home visits and wound dressing
and also assisting him with his showers. On observation today, Mr. O’Keefe’s general condition had
improved. His wound is healing and is free from complications.

Mr. O’Keefe, who lives with his wife in a housing commission home, is an aged care pensioner.
They are getting some help from their neighbours, but they are having trouble keeping up with
routine household work. As per the doctor’s order, we have organized daily home visits until 24
March 2008 after which our nursing care will end. Therefore, it would be greatly appreciated if you
could do a home visit and assess their needs and to arrange further assistance for this family.

Thank you for agreeing to assist in this matter. For further queries, please do not hesitate to contact
me.

Yours sincerely,

Charge Nurse
Blue Skies Home Care Centre

186 words
 Task 8 Case Notes

Time allowed: 40 minutes

You are the school nurse at a Toohey Point Primary State School

Today’s Date

07/03/2010

Patient Details

Alison Cooper
Year 5 student
DOB: 14/6/2000
Height:138cm
Weight:40 kg Overweight for her age
Eczema outbreaks on hands and mild asthma – has ventolin inhaler
No other significant illnesses
Youngest in her class

Social History

Father died in motor accident 18 months ago.

Lives with mother, a bank manager, working full time
Middle child- brother, Simon, aged 7 and sister, Lisa, aged 12
Paternal grandmother lives near school - provides after school and holiday care - looks after
children if unwell

School Medical Record

Regular absences from school dating back to time of father’s death

Year 2: 3 days
Year 3: 4 days
Year 4: 10 days
Year 5: 8 days in first term

School Health Centre Records

2010

February 8: Complained of headache. Gave paracetemol, rested and returned to class. Noted
eczema on hands red and weepy - has ointment at home.
February 16: Complained of stomach ache. Called grandmother for pick up.
February 22: Complained of aching legs. Called grandmother for pick up.
March 4: Complained of headache. Gave parcetemol, rested 1 hour, still had headache. Called
grandmother for pickup.
March 6: Feeling nauseous - eczema on hands red and weepy. Called grandmother for pick up.

2009

February 15: Complained of toothache. Called grandmother for pick up.

April 4: Complained of headache. Gave paracetemol - rested 1 hour.
May 14: Headache, eczema on hands red and weepy, rested 1 hour not better called
grandmother for pick up.
July 25: Feeling nauseous. Called grandmother for pick up.
August 16: Slight fever. Called grandmother for pick-up.
September 22: Feeling unwell. Eczema irritating. Called grandmother for pick up.
October 23: Complained of stomach ache. Rested 1 hour, returned to class.
November 27: Complained of headache. Gave paracetemol, rested 30 minutes.

Social History

Alison started school well but since Grade 3 has had trouble concentrating - rarely participates in
class activities unless encouraged. Avoids sporting activities – standard of her school work is
declining. Has few friends and is often teased by her classmates. Embarrassed about hands which
don’t seem to be responding well to ointment suggested by chemist.

Mother was contacted by class teacher regarding these issues. Says Alison is also becoming
withdrawn at home. Alison was very close to her father – often talks to her about him and cries
because she misses him. Seeks comfort in food like chips and cakes after school.

Plan
Refer her to the school psychologist to find out whether Alison has underlying grief related or other
psychological problems.

WRITING TASK
Using the information in the case notes, write a letter to refer this girl to the school psychologist,
Barnaby Webster, to assess her. Outline the purpose of the referral. Provide details of significant
factors which will assist the psychologist to make this assessment.
In your answer:

• Do not use note form.

• Expand the relevant case notes into full sentences.
• The body of the letter should not be more than 200 words.
• Use correct letter format.
 Task 8 Model Letter

07/03/2010

Barnaby Webster
The School Psychologist
Toohey Point State School

Dear Mr Webster,

Re: Alison Cooper

DOB: 14/06/00

I am writing to refer Alison, a year 5 student at our school due to possible psychological
problems and low self esteem.

She lives with her mother, who is working full-time as a bank manager and her father died 3
years ago due to an accident. Alison has an older sister and a younger brother. Her
grandmother looks after the children when required. In terms of her medical history, she is
suffers from asthma and eczema with no other significant illnesses, however, she is overweight
for her age.

Her school record shows that she has a history of regular absence during the past 5 years. In
addition, her academic performance is declining and she is reluctant to joint any school activities
unless persuaded. She has few friends and has been teased by her peers about her weight.

Please note, Alison’s teacher contacted her mother regarding her situation and she reported
that Alison is overeating, embarrassed about her eczema and missing her father, who she was
very close to.

Based on this, I would appreciate it if you could investigate her case and should you require any
further information please do not hesitate to contact me.

Yours sincerely,

Charge Nurse
Toohey Point State School

Word Count: 195 words

 Task 9 Case Notes
Time allowed: 40 minutes

Today’s date: 21/05/09

You are Grace Jones, a qualified nursing sister working in Ward C25, Princess Alexandra Hospital.
Contact Ph. 07 3897 7642. Annette MacNamara is a patient in your care. Read the case notes
below and complete the writing task which follows.

Name: Annette MacNamara

Address: Unit 15, 86 Smart St, West End
Phone: (07) 3379 5926
Date of Birth: 14 June 1936

Social Background
Single Age Pensioner - Recently moved to a small flat in new suburb. House she rented for 10
years was sold. Feels increasingly lonely and isolated - rarely sees neighbours – transport
problems make it impossible to continue to attend bowls and bridge clubs. Next to kin, Niece –
Stella Attois Ph 075 5984 7216 lives and works in Southport - generally visits once a fortnight.

Medical History
Date of admission: 20-05-2009
Date of Discharge 22-05-2009 – provided no complications and home assistance arranged.
Admitted to hospital following fall. Slipped and fell while descending stairs to put out garbage.
X-ray revealed fractured right wrist – Laceration to left hand caused by broken glass. Stitches
required- Severe bruising of right shoulder and lower back.

Medications
Karvea 150mg daily am – history of high blood pressure now controlled
Normison 10mg-1 nightly for insomnia when required.
Pain relief – 2 Panadol 4 hourly while pain persists.

Discharge plan
Organise daily visits from Blue Nursing Service to assist with showering and to dress hand wound.
Social Worker to organise Meals on Wheels and physiotherapy.
(niece will visit at weekend to help with housework and shopping)
Stitches to be removed and situation to be reviewed at Out Patient Department appointment -
10.30 am 31-05-09

WRITING TASK
Using the information in the case notes, write a letter to the Director, Blue Nursing Service, 207
Sydney Street, West End. Do not use note form in the letter. Expand on the relevant case notes to
explain patient’s background and medical history and the assistance requested. The letter should
be 15-20 lines long. No more than the first 25 lines will be assessed.
 Task 9 Model Letter

21/05/09

The Director
Blue Nursing Service
207 Sydney Street
New Farm, 4106

Re: Ms Annette McNamara

DOB 14.06.1936

I am writing to request daily visits by the Blue Nurses to provide support for this patient, an aged
pensioner who lives on her own.

Ms McNamara was admitted to the Princess Alexandra Hospital on 20th May following a fall down
a flight of stairs at her flat. She sustained a fractured right wrist, lacerations to her left hand which
required stitches and severe bruising to her right shoulder and lower back. Providing there are no
complications, hospital discharge is scheduled for 22 May. She has a 10.30am appointment on
31/05/09 at our Out Patient Department to remove the stitches and review her situation.

Meals on Wheels and a home physiotherapist visit are being organised by a social worker. Ms
McNamara will also require assistance with showering and to have her left hand wound dressed.

Ms McNamara’s current medications are Karvea 150mg daily to control high blood pressure,
Normison 10mg as required for insomnia and 2 Panadol 4 hourly while pain persists. She moved to
a new flat recently and has lost her usual social contacts. Her next of kin is a niece, Stella who can
be contacted on 075 5984 7216.

Please contact me if you require any further information.

Yours sincerely,

Grace Jones
Ward C 25
Princess Alexandra Hospital

Word Length: 201 Words

 Task 10 Case Notes
Time allowed: 40 minutes
Read the case notes below and complete the writing task which follows:
Today’s date: 9/7/08

Patient Details

Jim Middleton aged 84 was admitted to your ward following surgery for a left inguinal hernia. His
doctor has advised he can be discharged within 48hrs if there are no complications following the
surgery. Jim reports some pain on movement but has recovered well from the surgery and is keen
to return home.

Name: Jim Middleton

Date of Birth: 3 July 1924
Admitted: 7 July 2008
Planned Discharge Date: 9 July 2008
Diagnosis: Left inguinal hernia

Medical History

Hypertension diagnosed 1998

Medication Atacand 4mg daily

Family History

Married 50 years to wife Olga DOB 8.2.32 – one son living in USA
Jim is Second World War veteran – served two years in Borneo –Prison of War 16 months.
Own their own home with large garden which they maintain without assistance.
Very independent and proud that they have never applied for a pension or home assistance. Have
always managed quite well on their income from a number of investments.
Olga told you she is worried as income from these investments has recently been significantly
reduced due to severe stock market falls. She is concerned Jim will not be able to continue to
maintain their garden and they will not be able to afford a gardener or any other help at this time.
Transport is also a problem as Olga does not drive. Not close to any reliable public transport so will
have to rely on taxis. Olga thinks they may now be eligible to receive a pension and other
assistance from the Department of Veteran Affairs but doesn’t know how to find out - doesn’t want
to worry Jim.
Olga is in good general health but becoming increasingly deaf - finds phone conversations difficult.
She would appreciate a home visit. You agree to enquire on her behalf. Their address is 22
Alexander Street, Belmont, Brisbane 4153 Phone (O7) 6946 5173

Discharge Plan
• Must avoid any heavy lifting
• Should not drive for at least six weeks
• Light exercise only
• May take 2 Panadol six hourly for pain
• Appointment made to see surgeon for post operation check at 10am on 11 August
• Contact Department of Veterans Affairs re eligibility for pension and home help

WRITING TASK
Using the information in the case notes, write a letter to The Director, Department of Veterans
Affairs, GPO Box 777 Brisbane 4001. In your letter, explain why you are writing and the assistance
they are seeking.

Do not use note form in the letter; expand the relevant case notes into full sentences. The letter
should be 15-20 lines long. No more than the first 25 lines will be assessed.
 Task 10 Model Letter

The Director
Department of Veterans’ Affairs
GPO Box 777
Brisbane, 4001

Dear Sir/Madam

Re: DVA Eligibility for Mr Jim Middleton

D0B 3/7/1924

I am writing to request a home visit by DVA staff to Mr Jim Middleton and his wife Olga to assess
their eligibility for a DVA pension and/or other assistance that your department provides. Their
address is Alexander Street, Belmont, Brisbane 4153. Their phone number is (07) 6946 5173.

Mr Middleton, a Second World War veteran, was also a prisoner of war. He does not receive any
government pension or other assistance. He was discharged from hospital on 9 July after a
successful inguinal hernia operation. His physical activities are currently limited and he cannot drive
for at least six weeks.

Prior to discharge, Mr Middleton’s wife Olga spoke to me about their ability to manage their own
home without assistance. Their income is not sufficient to pay for home or garden help. Olga does
not drive and there is no nearby public transport. She is in good general health but finds phone
conversation difficult due to hearing problems. A home visit to discuss their eligibility for assistance
would be appreciated.

Please contact me on (07) 3947 2987 should your require any further information

Yours sincerely,

Nurse Manager, Ward 3

Word Count: 184 words