What question would best elicit information about suspected drug use in a patient with no prenatal care?

The choice of asking what drugs have been used during pregnancy is particularly effective in eliciting information about suspected drug use because it directly addresses the specific behavior of interest. This question invites the patient to disclose relevant information without the implication of judgment or assumptions about their situation. It is straightforward and encourages openness, allowing the patient to provide a clear answer regarding any drug use.

In contrast, inquiring about complications during pregnancy might not yield specific information about drug use, as the patient might not connect their experiences of complications to substance use. Similarly, asking whether they consume alcohol while pregnant narrows the focus to alcohol alone, which does not encompass other potential drugs that might be relevant. Lastly, asking about any medications can lead to discussions about prescribed or over-the-counter medications but may not prompt honest disclosure about illicit drug use or recreational substances. Therefore, the direct approach of inquiring about drug usage during pregnancy is the most effective way to gather the necessary information in this context.