Rosh Psychiatry Board Practice Exam

What is the primary purpose of the PCL-5 checklist in relation to post-traumatic stress disorder?

1. To diagnose post-traumatic stress disorder based on a fixed score

2. To screen and monitor symptom severity over time

3. To provide a comprehensive assessment with 100 questions

4. To distinguish between civilian and military populations

The correct answer is: To screen and monitor symptom severity over time

The PCL-5, or the Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Checklist for DSM-5, serves primarily as a tool for screening and monitoring the severity of symptoms associated with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It consists of questions that are directly correlated with the diagnostic criteria for PTSD, allowing clinicians to assess the presence and intensity of symptoms over time. The ability to track symptom severity is particularly valuable in clinical practice since it helps healthcare providers make informed decisions regarding treatment plans and adjustments, assess treatment efficacy, and evaluate changes over time. The focus of the PCL-5 on symptom severity makes it a dynamic tool rather than a static diagnostic measure, which is essential for ongoing patient care in the context of PTSD. The alternative options do not align with the primary function of the PCL-5. For example, while diagnosis is an important aspect of any assessment instrument, the PCL-5 does not provide a definitive diagnosis solely based on a fixed score; it is meant to complement clinical judgment. Additionally, while the PCL-5 does assess the symptoms related to PTSD, it is not designed to be a comprehensive assessment tool with a large number of questions akin to those found in broader psychological evaluations. Finally, the PCL-5 can