Which symptoms comprise Reynold's pentad of cholangitis?

Reynold's pentad is a critical set of symptoms associated with acute cholangitis, which is an infection of the bile duct system. The correct symptoms in this context include fever, right upper quadrant (RUQ) pain, jaundice, confusion, and hypotension.

Fever and jaundice are classic signs of cholangitis due to the obstruction and inflammation of the bile ducts. RUQ pain indicates the area of discomfort arising from the liver and bile ducts, reinforcing the diagnosis. Confusion often suggests the presence of systemic infection or sepsis, which can occur if cholangitis advances. Hypotension indicates a severe systemic response, potentially reflecting septic shock, which can arise from the progression of the infection.

Understanding these components is essential for recognizing the severe nature of cholangitis and the urgency for intervention. Other options may include similar symptoms, but they do not encompass the entire pentad in the context of cholangitis, making the correct choice distinctive for assessment of the acute situation.