Final answer:
A geriatric patient with a history of alcohol abuse or on anticoagulation medication is more likely to sustain a A. Subdural hematoma during a fall.
Step-by-step explanation:
A geriatric patient who has a history of long-term alcohol abuse or who is taking anticoagulant medication (blood thinners) has a greater chance of sustaining a Subdural hematoma during a fall. Such patients are at a higher risk due to the blood's reduced ability to clot, which can result in more bleeding when an injury occurs. While falls in geriatric patients can also result in fractures, a Subdural hematoma is especially concerning in patients with a history of alcohol abuse or those on anticoagulants because even a minor head injury can lead to significant bleeding within the braincase.
Prolonged immobilization from injuries such as pelvic fractures, hip fractures, or spinal injuries can lead to serious complications, including deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, and pneumonia in the elderly. Amongst the listed injuries, hip fractures are notable for their frequency and severity; they often require immediate surgical intervention, and the associated immobility can result in grave complications for the geriatric population.
Nonetheless, when considering the specific increased risks associated with alcohol abuse and anticoagulation, a Subdural hematoma is more directly related to the physiological effects of these risk factors because it involves bleeding within the cranial cavity, which can be exacerbated by impaired clotting mechanisms.