Fever and rapid breathing in general practice
RN OSCE practice station

The task

You are the RN in a general practice clinic. Amina Hassan, aged 34, has fever and urinary burning while awaiting the GP. Her sister Maryam is with her. Measure and record observations, explain the concern and arrange urgent medical help. The GP is in a nearby room and can be called. Complete the supplied practice record. You have eight minutes; describe physical actions in this online exercise.

What this station tests

• Amina’s preserved conversation does not cancel hypotension and possible sepsis.
• Call the nearby GP and 000 before waiting for detailed interpretation.
• Ask about loin pain, urine, intake and pregnancy rather than assume a simple urinary infection.
• Keep her lying down and supervised with frequent repeat observations.

Sources for the clinical content

• ACSQHC: Recognising and Responding to Acute Deterioration Standard
• ACSQHC: Sepsis Clinical Care Standard
• TIS National: qualified interpreting services
• ACSQHC: Communicating for Safety Standard

An original practice scenario with invented patients. Not an exam question.

Practise next

• Postoperative observations and urgent escalation
• New confusion during residential care observations
• Dizziness during a home nursing visit
• A child working harder to breathe
• Reduced intake and observations in a child