Primary Care PTSD Screen for DSM-5 (PC-PTSD-5)
5-item screen for PTSD in primary care settings. A positive screen (≥3) warrants further evaluation. Validated against structured clinical interview (SCID). Requires a traumatic event as a precondition.
Score interpretation
PC-PTSD-5 score <3 — PTSD unlikely (if trauma precondition met)
→ No further PTSD assessment indicated; if subclinical distress, consider brief supportive counselling or brief trauma-focused CBT
PC-PTSD-5 ≥3 — positive screen; PTSD possible
→ Formal PTSD diagnostic assessment (PCL-5 or structured clinical interview); refer to trauma-focused therapy (EMDR, prolonged exposure, CPT); assess for comorbid depression, substance use, and suicide risk; safeguarding review if appropriate
Interpretation bands for the PC-PTSD-5. Apply clinical judgement and local guidance.
References
- Prins A et al. The Primary Care PTSD Screen for DSM-5 (PC-PTSD-5): Development and Evaluation Within a Veteran Primary Care Sample. J Gen Intern Med. 2016;31(10):1206–1211.
Related
Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.
- Tranexamic Acid (ICU/Trauma/Surgical) · Antifibrinolytic
- Obeticholic Acid · FXR Agonist (Primary Biliary Cholangitis)
- Sodium hyaluronate · Ocular lubricant (hyaluronic acid)
- Medical-Grade Honey (Manuka) · Topical Wound Care Agent
- Silicone Gel / Sheeting (Scar Management) · Medical Device / Topical Scar Treatment
- Ianalumab (Anti-BAFF — Primary Sjögren's Syndrome) · Anti-BAFF Monoclonal Antibody (B-Cell Survival Factor Inhibitor)
- Acute Behavioural Disturbance / Rapid Tranquillisation · RCEM 2022; RCPsych 2022; NICE NG10
- Self-Harm Presentation · NICE NG225 (2022)
- Capacity Assessment (Mental Capacity Act) · MCA 2005; Code of Practice
- Acute Psychosis Management · NICE CG178 2014
- Depression Management · NICE CG90 2022
- Lithium Therapy Monitoring · NICE CG185
Decision support only — verify against a current formulary, NICE, or your local guideline before clinical use.