A 42-year-old patient with known asthma presents to the ED with acute dyspnea and wheezing. He has used his albuterol inhaler several times at home with minimal relief. On exam, he is tachypneic and has diffuse wheezing. What is the most appropriate next step in management?
✓ Correct Answer: Option C
Systemic corticosteroids are crucial for acute asthma exacerbations, especially when initial bronchodilator response is poor, as they reduce airway inflammation and prevent disease progression.