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National chest injury guideline published

A new national guideline released today aims to ensure that all people who experience chest injury receive consistent and comprehensive care while in hospital, and consistent advice to support rehabilitation.  

The ‘National chest injury guideline’ provides a foundation of clinical guidance that hospital services can adapt for use within the context of their local infrastructure, capacity and capability.  

It was developed following extensive data analysis and research review, which highlighted the significant impact of serious chest injury on patient outcomes, with complex injuries often leading to longer hospital stays and more severe long-term problems.  

An audit of chest injury care guidelines used in Aotearoa New Zealand found significant variation in management of these patients between facilities, and in the resources handed out to patients across the country. 

The guideline and patient information handout are now available on the National Trauma Network website. They include guidance around the management of at-risk populations, such as older adults and Māori, as well as Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) navigation and support to facilitate a smooth transition to the community. 

Access the National chest injury guideline 

Access the Caring for your chest injury patient information handouts 

Background 

The development of the ‘National chest injury guideline’ and ‘Caring for your chest injury’ patient information handout is part of Aotearoa New Zealand’s major trauma quality improvement programme. 

The programme is delivered in partnership between Te Tāhū Hauora Health Quality & Safety Commission, Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora Trauma National Clinical Network and the Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC).  

Published 4 August 2025