Appendix R: Primary Care PTSD Screen for DSM-5 (PC-PTSD- 5)

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Sometimes things happen to people that are unusually or especially frightening, horrible, or traumatic. For example:

  • a serious accident or fire
  • a physical or sexual assault or abuse
  • an earthquake or flood
  • a war
  • seeing someone be killed or seriously injured
  • having a loved one die through homicide or suicide.

Have you ever experienced this kind of event?

YES        NO

If no, screen total = 0. Please stop here.

If yes, please answer the questions below.

In the past month have you: Yes No
1. Had nightmares about the event(s) or thought about the event(s) when you did not want to? 1 0
2. Tried hard not to think about the event(s) or went out of your way to avoid situations that reminded you of the event(s)? 1 0
3. Been constantly on guard, watchful, or easily startled? 1 0
4. Felt numb or detached from people, activities, or your surroundings? 1 0
5. Felt guilty or unable to stop blaming yourself or others for the event(s) or any problems the event(s) may have caused? 1 0

Source: Prins, A., Bovin, M. J., Kimerling, R., Kaloupek, D. G., Marx, B. P., Pless Kaiser, A., & Schnurr, P. P. (2016). Primary Care PTSD Screen for DSM-5 (PC-PTSD-5) [Measurement instrument]. Available from www.ptsd.va.gov.