PTSD Patient Assessment & Evaluation 3

Question 1

Which of the following is an example of a Criterion E (alterations in arousal and reactivity) symptom of PTSD?

Accepted Answer

Reckless or self-destructive behavior

Answer

Reckless or self-destructive behavior is listed under Criterion E as an alteration in arousal and reactivity.

Question 2

When evaluating PTSD symptom duration, DSM-5 requires that symptoms persist for at least:

Accepted Answer

1 month

Answer

DSM-5 specifies that PTSD symptoms must be present for more than one month to meet diagnostic criteria.

Question 3

A clinician notes that a patient's PTSD symptoms began 6 months after the traumatic event. This presentation is best described as:

Accepted Answer

Delayed-expression PTSD

Answer

DSM-5 specifies a 'delayed expression' specifier when full diagnostic criteria are not met until at least 6 months after the trauma.

Question 4

Which assessment approach is most consistent with trauma-informed care during a PTSD evaluation?

Accepted Answer

Explaining the purpose of screening questions before asking them

Answer

Explaining the purpose of questions beforehand builds trust, reduces re-traumatization risk, and reflects trauma-informed principles.

Question 5

The PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5) is best used in clinical practice as a:

Accepted Answer

Self-report screening and symptom severity measure

Answer

The PCL-5 is a validated 20-item self-report measure used to screen for PTSD and monitor symptom severity over time.

(PTSD) Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Certification Practice Test