Ministers have published the first ever code of conduct for NHS managers in the wake of accusations that some "fiddled" waiting list figures.

It tells hospital bosses that they should be "honest" and "act with integrity".

The care and safety of patients, says the code, should be the top priority for managers.

In addition, they should "accept responsibility for their own work", it advises.

Anyone found to be in breach of the code could be dismissed from the NHS and never re-employed within it.

First code

Prior to the release of the code, NHS managers were not subject to any general strictures on expected behaviour - beyond those expected from an employee of any company.

However, several high profile incidents which have led to the resignation or sacking of high-level managers have prompted ministers to introduce the guidelines.

Some managers were found to have manipulated waiting lists in order to meet government targets.

A recent BBC survey suggested that many managers were prepared to "fiddle the figures" to meet certain targets.

Caring

From now on, managers are expected to "respect the public, partners, patients, relatives, carers, NHS staff and partners in other agencies."

The document, which has been subject to consultation for the past five months, was launched by NHS chief executive Nigel Crisp.

He said: "We need to build on the good relationships in the NHS and with our partners - to create a more participative and open culture where everyone can contribute.

"This culture needs to be creative, challenging and supportive."

The final version of the guidance was also welcomed by the union Unison.

A spokesman said: "We believe the code will set ethical standards for manager in a way that will strengthen their ability to stand up for patient rights and safeguard staff welfare."

A spokesman for independent health think tank The Kings Fund said: "It is now more important than ever, though, that all of the various standards and regulations that apply to the different health professions are brought into line with each other.

"Patients are treated by clinical teams, not just individual clinicians."