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Role Play: Dry Cleaning Error – Apologising for a Mistake

MMIMedium
Role Play & Communication · 7 minSelf-marked
How to use this: start the timer and answer the question out loud (or type it). Then grade yourself 0–3 on each skill with a note of your evidence — exactly as our examiners do. Hit Reveal benchmark & score to see what a model answer scores and how you compare. Everything saves to your browser automatically.
Answer timer
7:00/ 7 min suggested
1

Answer the question

Role Play: Dry Cleaning Error – Apologising for a Mistake

You dyed a suit the wrong colour; what would you say to the client?

Likely follow-ups
1

How do you apologise without being defensive?

2

What would you offer to resolve the situation?

3

How does this translate to apologising to a patient after a dental error?

Your answer

Speak it out loud and we'll type it for you (free), or type your own notes — then mark yourself below.

Resources & frameworks
  • SPIKES for breaking bad news: Setting, Perception, Invitation, Knowledge, Empathy, Strategy.
  • Listen → empathise → check understanding → agree a plan together. Calm voice, no jargon.
What strong answers do
Reveal the benchmark

Hidden so they don't bias your answer. Score yourself first, then reveal them to compare.

  • Start with a sincere, immediate apology and take full responsibility without deflection.
  • Offer a concrete remedy -- in dentistry, this maps to explaining the Duty of Candour.
  • Use active listening -- let the 'client' express their frustration before offering solutions.
2

Mark yourself

Score each skill against the rubric, then add a line of evidence. Scale:

0Not shown1Limited2Good3Excellent
Quick mark:Completion: 0%

Communication

0/3

Demonstrates clear, empathetic, and non-defensive communication

Empathy

0/3

Shows genuine understanding of the client's frustration

Professionalism

0/3

Handles the situation with poise and takes responsibility

Problem Solving

0/3

Proposes a constructive solution

3

Reflect & score

What would you change next time?
Your overall score / 10
Total: 0/12
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