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Occupational English Test Reading Samples for Nurses: Comprehensive Guide

by OccEnglish | Published: July 04, 2025

Introduction\n\nThe Occupational English Test (OET) is a crucial proficiency exam for healthcare professionals, including nurses, seeking to practice in English-speaking countries like the UK, Australia, and New Zealand. The Reading section of the OET assesses a nurse's ability to comprehend healthcare-related texts. In this article, we will delve into OET Reading samples for nurses, providing insights into the format, question types, and strategies for improvement.\n\n### Why is the OET Reading Important for Nurses?\n\n- Professional Registration: Required for registration with nursing councils in target countries.\n- Accurate Patient Care: Ensures understanding of medical literature and patient records.\n- Effective Communication: Enhances interaction with colleagues and patients.\n\n## OET Reading Format for Nurses\n\nThe OET Reading test for nurses consists of two parts:\n\n1. Part A: 20 questions based on 4-6 short texts (e.g., patient notes, drug information).\n2. Part B: 30 questions based on 3 longer texts (e.g., articles, policy documents).\n\n### Question Types in OET Reading\n\n- Multiple Choice: Select the correct answer from options.\n- True/False: Determine if statements are true or false based on the text.\n- Matching: Match statements with the correct text or heading.\n- Summary: Write a short summary of a text in your own words.\n\n## Sample OET Reading Questions for Nurses\n\n### Part A Sample\n\nText: A patient's medication chart excerpt...\n\nQuestion 1 (Multiple Choice): What is the prescribed dosage of Acetaminophen?\n\nA) 500mg every 6 hours\nB) 1000mg every 12 hours\nC) 750mg every 4 hours\n\nAnswer: B) 1000mg every 12 hours\n\n### Part B Sample\n\nText Excerpt: "...new guidelines suggest all patients with diabetes should undergo regular foot exams to prevent ulcers..."\n\nQuestion 15 (True/False): The new guidelines recommend foot exams only for patients with complications.\n\nAnswer: False\n\n## Strategies for Improving OET Reading Scores\n\n### 1. Familiarize Yourself with Healthcare Texts\n\n- Read medical journals, patient records, and healthcare policy documents.\n\n### 2. Practice Under Timed Conditions\n\n- Allocate 1 hour for Part A and 1.5 hours for Part B, mimicking the actual test.\n\n### 3. Enhance Vocabulary\n\n- Focus on healthcare terminology; use flashcards or vocabulary apps.\n\n### 4. Question Analysis\n\n- For each question, identify the question type and locate the answer in the text efficiently.\n\n## Conclusion\n\nPreparing for the OET Reading with targeted practice using authentic samples and employing effective strategies is key to success. Nurses should focus on both understanding the format deeply and enhancing their general reading comprehension skills in a healthcare context.\n\n### Additional Resources\n\n- Official OET Website: For authentic materials and test tips.\n- OET Preparation Courses: For structured learning and feedback.\n