PCL-5 (PTSD Checklist)

How to use it

1. 1

   Covers past month. 20 items, 0–4 each (not at all to extremely).

2. 2

   Threshold ≥ 33. Optimal cut for PTSD diagnosis (DSM-5). Some studies use 31–38 depending on population.

3. 3

   4-cluster structure. Intrusion (Q1–5), Avoidance (Q6–7), Negative cognition/mood (Q8–14), Arousal/reactivity (Q15–20).

When to use it

After traumatic event

Screen 1–3 months post-event — PCL-5 detects established PTSD (not acute stress reaction).

Military, emergency services, ICU survivors

High-risk populations — annual or post-incident screening.

Treatment monitoring

10-point change = clinically significant improvement.