What is the difference between the original and simplified Wells score?

The original Wells score uses weighted points. The simplified version assigns 1 point per criterion and uses a two-tier cutoff: 0–1 is PE unlikely and 2 or more is PE likely.

What does a simplified Wells score of 0 mean?

A score of 0 or 1 indicates PE is unlikely. In an appropriate diagnostic pathway, a negative D-dimer may exclude PE without CT pulmonary angiography. Always apply clinical judgment.

What should I do if the score is ≥ 2?

A score of 2 or more is PE likely in the simplified two-tier model and generally warrants imaging according to the applicable clinical pathway.

What does "PE is the #1 diagnosis or equally likely" mean?

This criterion is positive when the treating clinician believes pulmonary embolism is the most probable explanation for the patient's presentation, or is at least as likely as any alternative diagnosis considered.

Can this tool be used in pregnancy?

The Wells score was not validated in pregnancy. Pregnant patients suspected of PE require specialist guidance and pregnancy-specific imaging pathways.

Is this a substitute for clinical judgment?

No. This calculator is a decision-support aid for educational and reference use. All clinical decisions must be made by a qualified healthcare professional with full knowledge of the patient's history and examination.

Wells Criteria for PE (Simplified) Calculator

Check 7 clinical criteria to get a simplified Wells score and estimate the pre-test probability of pulmonary embolism.

Clinical Criteria

Check all criteria that apply. Each adds 1 point.

Result

out of 7 points

Suggested next step

For clinical reference only. This tool does not replace physician judgment or institutional protocols.

Summary

The simplified Wells score for pulmonary embolism (PE) uses 7 binary clinical variables to estimate pre-test probability. In the two-tier interpretation, a score of 0–1 is PE unlikely and a score of 2 or more is PE likely. Use the result with an appropriate diagnostic pathway and clinical assessment.

How it works

Check each clinical criterion that applies to the patient.
Each present criterion adds 1 point to the total score.
A total score of 0–1 = PE unlikely; a score ≥ 2 = PE likely.
Use the result to guide decisions about D-dimer testing or CTPA.
Review the interpretation panel for the recommended next steps.

Use cases

Stratifying pre-test probability of PE in the emergency department.
Deciding whether to order D-dimer or proceed directly to CTPA.
Teaching medical students and residents the Wells PE criteria.
Quick bedside reference during clinical rounds or triage.
Combining with PERC rule for low-risk PE rule-out workflows.
Documenting clinical reasoning in PE workup notes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Last updated: 2026-06-11 · Reviewed by Nham Vu