Wells — pulmonary embolism
Weighted criteria for clinical pretest probability of PE.
Wells — pulmonary embolism
Principle
Estimation of clinical pretest probability in suspected pulmonary embolism, using the seven weighted criteria in table 2 of NICE NG158.
Scope
Adult test case aged 18 years or older, with suspected PE, excluding pregnancy. This pilot also excludes postpartum and haemodynamic instability by scope choice; it does not delay urgent care.
Interpretation limits
This total neither confirms nor excludes PE on its own. It estimates pretest probability, without measuring severity or producing a risk percentage. No diagnostic pathway or treatment is prescribed by this capsule.
Formula and logic
3 × DVT + 3 × alternative diagnosis + 1,5 × heart rate + 1,5 × immobilisation/surgery + 1,5 × history + haemoptysis + cancer (Yes = 1; No = 0).
Interpretation
- ≤ 4
- PE unlikely
- > 4
- PE likely
Definition version : 0.4.0
Sources
- NICE — NG158 — tableau 2 et recommandation 1.1.17
2023-08-02 · Weighted criteria and threshold ≤ 4 / > 4. Reference verified on 6 October 2026.
- Wells PS et al. · Thrombosis and Haemostasis — Derivation of a simple clinical model… SimpliRED D-dimer
2000-03 · Derivation publication cited by NICE; historical model reference.