Suspected pulmonary embolism assessment (adult UK pathway)
A source-linked educational visual of adult suspected pulmonary embolism assessment, Wells scoring, D-dimer testing and imaging from NICE NG158.
Important safety note
This visual algorithm is an educational representation of published UK clinical guidance and is not a substitute for clinical judgement, local protocols, senior/specialist advice, or the original guideline. Verify current guidance before clinical use.
Scope and source
- Scope
- Adults with suspected pulmonary embolism in UK emergency and acute-care settings.
- Jurisdiction
- UK
- Primary guidance
- NICE NG158: Venous thromboembolic diseases: diagnosis, management and thrombophilia testing
- Guidance last updated
- 2023-08-02
- Clinical reference reviewed
- 2026-09-08
- Review due
- 2027-03-08
Interactive clinical algorithm
This source-backed visual algorithm is available in the interactive page experience. Open the original guidance and the node notes before clinical use.
How to read this visual
- Read across the columns for the phases of the pathway; the swimlanes are who acts — Emergency team, Scoring, bloods and imaging.
- Bold marks the dose, threshold or time limit that decides the next step; the rest of a label is context.
- Start with physiological stability before following the diagnostic branch.
- Read the node notes for time-critical anticoagulation and imaging qualifications.
Clinical notes
- Pregnancy, contrast contraindication and imaging availability require the relevant specialist/local pathway.
- Use the live NICE recommendation and local anticoagulation policy for treatment decisions.
Sources
- NICE NG158: Venous thromboembolic diseases (NICE; 2023-08-02)
Open an editable reference copy
Create a personal educational copy. Verify the original guidance before clinical use.