The Victorian State Trauma System (VSTS) provides support and retrieval services for critically injured patients requiring definitive care, transfer and management. This thoracic trauma guideline aims to provide evidence-based advice on the initial management and transfer of major trauma patients who present to Victorian health services with thoracic injuries.
This guideline is developed for all clinical staff involved in the care of trauma patients in Victoria. It is intended for use by frontline clinical staff that provide early care for major trauma patients; those working directly at the Major Trauma Services (MTS) as well as those working outside of a MTS.
These guidelines provide the user with accessible resources to provide initial care for critically injured patients with thoracic trauma in an effective and confident manner. The guideline has been assessed utilising the AGREEII methodology for guideline development and is under the auspice of the Trauma System Advisory Committee (TSAC).(1)