Brief screening instrument for post-traumatic stress disorder

Br J Psychiatry. 2002 Aug:181:158-62. doi: 10.1017/s0007125000161896.

Abstract

Background: Brief screening instruments appear to be a viable way of detecting post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) but none has yet been adequately validated.

Aims: To test and cross-validate a brief instrument that is simple to administer and score.

Method: Forty-one survivors of a rail crash were administered a questionnaire, followed by a structured clinical interview 1 week later.

Results: Excellent prediction of a PTSD diagnosis was provided by respondents endorsing at least six re-experiencing or arousal symptoms, in any combination. The findings were replicated on data from a previous study of 157 crime victims.

Conclusions: Performance of the new measure was equivalent to agreement achieved between two full clinical interviews.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Accidents
  • Adult
  • Crime Victims
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Interview, Psychological
  • London
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Railroads
  • Sensitivity and Specificity
  • Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / diagnosis*
  • Surveys and Questionnaires