PCL-5 — PTSD Checklist for DSM-5
20-item self-report measure of DSM-5 PTSD symptom severity. Score 0–80. Provisional PTSD diagnosis threshold: score ≥33.
Score interpretation
PCL-5 <20. Minimal PTSD symptom burden.
→ No PTSD diagnosis indicated. Offer psychoeducation and monitor if recent trauma exposure.
PCL-5 20–32. Significant symptoms but below provisional diagnosis threshold.
→ Consider psychological support. Monitor. Lower threshold (23+) may be appropriate in some contexts.
PCL-5 ≥33. Probable PTSD. Full diagnostic interview (structured CAPS-5) recommended.
→ Refer for trauma-focused CBT or EMDR. Consider SSRI (sertraline, paroxetine). Safeguarding if active suicidal ideation. Safety plan.
Interpretation bands for the PCL-5. Apply clinical judgement and local guidance.
References
- Weathers FW et al. The PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5). National Center for PTSD. 2013.
- Blevins CA et al. The Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5): development and initial psychometric evaluation. J Trauma Stress. 2015;28(6):489-498.
Related
Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.
- Tranexamic Acid (ICU/Trauma/Surgical) · Antifibrinolytic
- Lisinopril (HFrEF / Post-MI) · ACE Inhibitor / HFrEF
- Colchicine (Pericarditis / Post-MI Inflammation) · Pericarditis / Coronary Inflammation
- Clopidogrel (ACS / Post-PCI) · Antiplatelet / ACS
- Diclofenac (Dysmenorrhoea / Post-gynaecological Procedure) · NSAID — Gynaecological Pain
- Difluprednate 0.05% Eye Drops · Potent Ophthalmic Corticosteroid — Uveitis / Post-Operative Inflammation
- 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.