A 75-year-old woman presents with a large bruise on her hip following a fall. She reports moderate pain and has difficulty walking. What could be the issue and what should be done next?
Given her age and the location of the bruise, a hip fracture should be considered, particularly a fracture of the femoral neck or intertrochanteric region. She should be referred for an immediate X-ray. If a fracture is confirmed, she will likely require orthopedic consultation for possible surgical intervention.