How to use the wells score calculator
Prepare the values for this calculation
Calculate either the NICE two-level DVT Wells score or the NICE two-level pulmonary-embolism Wells score. Choose the rule explicitly because the criteria and thresholds differ. Use the formula below to check that it answers your question. Read the input units before transferring figures from a statement, measurement or dataset.
Enter and check each input
- Wells rule: choose Two-level DVT Wells, Two-level PE Wells. Match this selection to the data you enter.
- Active malignancy criterion: choose No, Yes. Match this selection to the data you enter.
- Paralysis, paresis or recent lower-limb plaster immobilisation: choose No, Yes. Match this selection to the data you enter.
- Bedridden ≥3 days or major surgery within 12 weeks with anaesthesia: choose No, Yes. Match this selection to the data you enter.
- Localised tenderness along deep venous system: choose No, Yes. Match this selection to the data you enter.
- Entire leg swollen: choose No, Yes. Match this selection to the data you enter.
- Calf swelling ≥3 cm vs asymptomatic side: choose No, Yes. Match this selection to the data you enter.
- Pitting oedema confined to symptomatic leg: choose No, Yes. Match this selection to the data you enter.
- Collateral superficial veins (non-varicose): choose No, Yes. Match this selection to the data you enter.
- Previously documented DVT: choose No, Yes. Match this selection to the data you enter.
- Alternative diagnosis at least as likely as DVT: choose No, Yes. Match this selection to the data you enter.
- Clinical signs and symptoms of DVT: choose No, Yes. Match this selection to the data you enter.
- Alternative diagnosis less likely than PE: choose No, Yes. Match this selection to the data you enter.
- Heart rate (beats/min): enter a value at least 0 and no more than 300. Use the unit named in the label or selected above. Do not leave this required field blank.
- Immobilisation >3 days or surgery in previous 4 weeks: choose No, Yes. Match this selection to the data you enter.
- Previous DVT or PE: choose No, Yes. Match this selection to the data you enter.
- Haemoptysis: choose No, Yes. Match this selection to the data you enter.
The input table gives a complete example. Keep units and time periods consistent across related fields.
Calculate and resolve any input error
Choose Calculate after entering the values. Changes also update the answer after a short pause. If an error appears, follow its message, correct the field and calculate again. Reset restores the example values.
Interpret the answer
Check Two-level Wells score first. With the unchanged example inputs, it is 0 points. Compare the additional metrics with the primary result; each has its own label and unit.
Compare and keep a useful result
The result diagram shows the inputs, method and output. A numeric chart is shown only when the calculation supports a meaningful numeric relationship.
Use Copy result or Download CSV to keep the answer. Share tool shares the page address without placing your input values in the URL. Recheck inputs and assumptions before using the result for a decision.
Wells Score Calculator formula
DVT Wells: nine +1 criteria and −2 when an alternative diagnosis is at least as likely; DVT likely at ≥2. PE Wells: +3 DVT signs, +3 alternative diagnosis less likely than PE, +1.5 tachycardia, +1.5 immobilisation/surgery, +1.5 previous DVT/PE, +1 haemoptysis, +1 malignancy; PE likely at >4.
Inputs and units
| Input | Format / range | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Wells rule | Select an option | Two-level DVT Wells |
| Active malignancy criterion | Select an option | No |
| Paralysis, paresis or recent lower-limb plaster immobilisation | Select an option | No |
| Bedridden ≥3 days or major surgery within 12 weeks with anaesthesia | Select an option | No |
| Localised tenderness along deep venous system | Select an option | No |
| Entire leg swollen | Select an option | No |
| Calf swelling ≥3 cm vs asymptomatic side | Select an option | No |
| Pitting oedema confined to symptomatic leg | Select an option | No |
| Collateral superficial veins (non-varicose) | Select an option | No |
| Previously documented DVT | Select an option | No |
| Alternative diagnosis at least as likely as DVT | Select an option | No |
| Clinical signs and symptoms of DVT | Select an option | No |
| Alternative diagnosis less likely than PE | Select an option | No |
| Heart rate (beats/min) | minimum 0; maximum 300 | 80 |
| Immobilisation >3 days or surgery in previous 4 weeks | Select an option | No |
| Previous DVT or PE | Select an option | No |
| Haemoptysis | Select an option | No |
Worked example
Using the example inputs above, the two-level wells score is 0 points.
- Two-level Wells score
- 0 points
- Rule used
- NICE two-level DVT Wells
- Source-defined two-level label
- DVT unlikely (two-level label)
Results and assumptions
The Wells score is a clinical prediction rule and includes criteria requiring clinical examination/judgement. This page does not diagnose DVT/PE, order D-dimer/imaging, or recommend anticoagulation. Educational scoring aid only. A score is not a diagnosis, does not replace direct clinical assessment, and must not be used by itself to choose or delay treatment.
Sources and method references
Fix an input or unexpected result
Heart rate (beats/min) is required. Enter heart rate (beats/min) using the format and bounds in the input table. Zero and an empty field are different: use zero only if it is allowed and represents your data.
If your answer differs from the example, choose Reset and compare every field, including selected units and options. Check percentage versus decimal entry and whether values describe the same period. Round only the final displayed answer when reproducing the formula.
If a discrepancy remains, report the calculator issue with the page address, non-sensitive example inputs, actual result, expected result and a reference for your calculation.