A 57-year-old patient with intermittent chest pains has used ibuprofen 400 mg with little relief and has a history of hypertension and type 2 diabetes. What is the most appropriate course of action?

• A. Recommend going to A&E immediately
• B. Take another ibuprofen dose
• C. Schedule a GP appointment for next week
• D. Take an antacid and rest

Answer: (A)

Chest pain in someone with hypertension and type 2 diabetes is a red flag that requires urgent assessment. The priority is to rule out or treat a possible acute coronary syndrome, such as unstable angina or a heart attack, and this needs immediate evaluation in an emergency department where an ECG, cardiac enzymes, and continuous monitoring can be done.

Ibuprofen won’t reliably address a cardiac cause of chest pain, and delaying assessment could allow a life-threatening condition to progress. Taking another dose or relying on antacids and rest would not adequately address a potential heart-related issue, and waiting for a GP appointment next week could miss a critical window for treatment. Therefore, going to A&E immediately is the safest and most appropriate action. If symptoms are severe or worsening, call emergency services right away.