Wells Score for PE Calculator
What is Wells Score for PE Calculator
The Wells score for pulmonary embolism turns seven clinical findings into a pretest probability. Signs of DVT and PE being the leading diagnosis each add 3 points; tachycardia, recent immobilization or surgery, and a prior clot each add 1.5; hemoptysis and active cancer add 1. The total feeds the two-tier model (PE unlikely at 4 or below, likely above 4) that decides whether a D-dimer or CT pulmonary angiography comes next.
How to use
- Tick each clinical finding the patient has.
- Watch the running total update with the weighted points.
- Read whether PE is likely or unlikely from the badge.
- Combine an unlikely result with a D-dimer per your local pathway.
When to use it
Suspecting PE and deciding between a D-dimer and straight to CT? Score the seven items: a total of 4 or below makes PE unlikely and often justifies a D-dimer first, while above 4 makes it likely and pushes toward imaging. Useful at the bedside, on referral, or when you need to document the pretest probability behind a scan request.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between the two-tier and three-tier Wells PE score?
The two-tier model splits patients into PE unlikely (4 or below) and PE likely (above 4). The three-tier version uses low (under 2), moderate (2 to 6) and high (above 6). This calculator shows the widely used two-tier cut-off.
What Wells PE score means PE is unlikely?
A total of 4 or below is PE unlikely. In that group a negative D-dimer can safely exclude PE without imaging, according to most emergency pathways.
How is the Wells PE score different from Wells for DVT?
They are separate scores with different items and weights. The DVT version predicts leg clot, the PE version predicts pulmonary embolism. Do not use one cut-off for the other.
Can I share this calculator with the criteria pre-filled?
Yes. The URL updates as you tick each item. Copy it from the address bar or use the Copy link button, and anyone who opens it sees the same Wells PE score ready to go.
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