Which factor is NOT included in the PERC score criteria?

The PERC score (Pulmonary Embolism Rule-out Criteria) is a clinical tool used to assess the risk of pulmonary embolism (PE) in patients without the need for imaging studies. The goal of the PERC score is to help determine which patients are unlikely to have a PE and can safely forgo further testing.

The criteria for the PERC score include factors such as the patient's age, history of hemoptysis (coughing up blood), history of leg swelling, and other clinical signs. The correct answer highlights that chest pain history is not part of the PERC score. Although chest pain can be associated with PE, it does not specifically serve as one of the criteria for determining the need for further evaluation in this scoring system.

In contrast, age over 50, hemoptysis, and leg swelling disparity are all directly assessed within the PERC criteria, as they contribute to the overall risk assessment for PE. Therefore, understanding the purpose of the PERC criteria and its specific components is crucial for effective clinical practice, ensuring that patients who are unlikely to have PE can avoid unnecessary imaging and interventions.