Why is shifting dullness on exam consistent with ascitic fluid in the abdomen?
1) Fluid is heavier than air and thus shifts with gravity when the patient changes position.
2) Ascitic fluid is not able to be assessed by percussion of the abdomen.
3) The liver is dull to percussion and moves with position change.
4) Air is heavier than fluid, so dullness is found in the anterior abdomen.
5) Fluid is dull to percussion and shifts to the top of the abdomen with ascites.