How it's calculated
Eleven risk factors are weighted (3, 2, or 1 point each, reflecting their independent contribution to VTE risk) and summed for a total score.
Interpretation
| Score | Risk | Action |
|---|---|---|
| < 4 | Low risk | Pharmacological prophylaxis generally not needed |
| ≥ 4 | High risk | Pharmacological prophylaxis recommended if no contraindication |
Clinical use
- Used to decide which hospitalised medical (non-surgical) patients should receive pharmacological VTE prophylaxis (e.g. LMWH or unfractionated heparin) versus mechanical measures or observation alone.
- Unlike diagnostic PE probability scores (Wells, Revised Geneva), the Padua score is a prevention/prophylaxis-decision tool applied at admission, not a tool for diagnosing an existing clot.
- Early mobilisation should be encouraged in all hospitalised patients regardless of score, as one of the simplest and most effective VTE-prevention measures.
Frequently asked questions
Who should the Padua score be used in?
Hospitalised medical (non-surgical) patients at admission, to decide whether pharmacological VTE prophylaxis is warranted — separate, surgery-specific risk tools (e.g. Caprini) are used for surgical patients.
What score threshold indicates a need for prophylaxis?
A score of 4 or more identifies high-risk patients for whom pharmacological prophylaxis is recommended in the absence of a bleeding contraindication.
Does a low Padua score mean no VTE-prevention measures are needed?
It means pharmacological prophylaxis is generally not indicated on risk grounds alone, but general measures — early mobilisation and adequate hydration — are still appropriate for all patients.
References
- Barbar S, et al. A risk assessment model for the identification of hospitalized medical patients at risk for venous thromboembolism: the Padua Prediction Score. J Thromb Haemost. 2010;8(11):2450-2457.
- Kahn SR, et al. Prevention of VTE in Nonsurgical Patients: CHEST Guideline. Chest. 2012.