OET Writing: Selecting Relevant Case Notes

Question 1

When deciding which case notes to include in an OET referral letter, what is the single most important factor?

Accepted Answer

The relevance to the recipient and purpose of the letter

Answer

Selection is driven by what the reader needs to act on the patient's care, not by completeness.

Question 2

A patient is being referred to a physiotherapist after a hip replacement. Which detail is LEAST relevant to include?

Accepted Answer

The patient's childhood appendectomy 30 years ago

Answer

An unrelated, decades-old surgery has no bearing on current physiotherapy management.

Question 3

In the OET Writing task, irrelevant case notes are best handled by:

Accepted Answer

Omitting them entirely from the letter

Answer

Relevant-only selection is assessed, so irrelevant notes should simply be left out.

Question 4

Which piece of information is almost always relevant in a discharge or referral letter?

Accepted Answer

The reason for referral or admission

Answer

The reason for referral or admission frames the entire letter and is essential.

Question 5

A note states the patient 'enjoys gardening as a hobby.' When is this relevant to include?

Accepted Answer

When it relates to ongoing care, such as exposure or rehabilitation goals

Answer

Social details become relevant when they affect diagnosis, risk, or care planning.

(OET) Occupational English Test Practice Test