What finding in a geriatric patient would increase suspicion for subdural hematoma after a fall?

In evaluating a geriatric patient after a fall, several clinical findings can increase suspicion for subdural hematoma, a condition that is often subacute and can manifest with various neurological symptoms.

When a geriatric patient presents with confusion, it indicates a potential disturbance in cognitive function, which may be attributed to increased intracranial pressure or the presence of a mass effect, such as that caused by a subdural hematoma. This is particularly relevant in older adults, who may have more fragile brains and are at greater risk for such conditions following minor head trauma.

Right hemiparesis is another significant finding. This indicates weakness on one side of the body, suggesting potential damage to specific areas of the brain that could be caused by a hematoma. A subdural hematoma can cause localized pressure on the cerebral cortex or brain structures responsible for motor function, and thus produce motor deficits like hemiparesis.

Similarly, a dilated pupil can also raise concern, as it may indicate increased intracranial pressure or damage to the brainstem, which controls pupillary response. Specifically, unilateral pupil dilation can suggest pressure on the oculomotor nerve, which may occur due to hematoma expansion.

Therefore, all these findings