Q1. A patient with an acute asthma attack has diminished breath sounds and no wheezing. What does this indicate?
- The attack is resolving
- The patient is hyperventilating from anxiety
- A normal finding
- Severe airflow obstruction that may be life-threatening
Show answer and explanation
Answer: D. Severe airflow obstruction that may be life-threatening
A 'silent chest' means so little air is moving that wheezes are no longer heard; it signals impending respiratory failure.