Abrupt cessation of wheezing in the patient with severe asthma indicates respiratory failure is imminent because the patient can no longer draw in enough air to make a wheezing sound. The rapid response team should be called immediately. Supraclavicular retractions indicate accessory muscle use but are less concerning than cessation of wheezing. Blunt and rounded fingertips indicate clubbing, a symptom of long-term hypoxia. The patient sitting hunched forward over the knees is attempting to improve chest wall movement and is a position of comfort.