Which of the following characteristics would be expected of a patient with life-threatening asthma?

Choice A reason: Sitting forward and showing respiratory distress is typical of moderate asthma exacerbations, not life-threatening asthma. Patients are still able to move air in and out of the lungs. Choice B reason: This is correct. Life-threatening asthma can present with a silent chest on auscultation due to severely reduced airflow. This is a medical emergency, often accompanied by hypoxia, cyanosis, or altered mental status. Choice C reason: Bilateral expiratory wheezing is more common in mild to moderate asthma attacks. In severe cases, wheezing may be absent because airflow is critically limited. Choice D reason: Tremor and mild tachycardia are side effects of beta-agonist therapy, not specific indicators of life-threatening asthma. They are more indicative of medication use than disease severity.