Case study – good practice for Newborn or Baby circumcision

This case study is taken from a GP practice that has conducted traditional circumcision for 28 years. ( published CQC website)

In this practice, parents receive written information and advice in advance of the procedure. This includes a consent form and information about aftercare. The practice requires both parents to give consent to the procedure.

Parents are advised not to feed the infant for two hours before the procedure. This ensures that the baby feeds immediately afterwards to provide comfort.

The doctor assesses the level and type of local anaesthesia appropriate for each infant, taking account of their age and weight and the requirements of the procedure. Pain relief is proportionate and appropriate for the individual needs of the infant.

If the doctor concludes that the procedure cannot be safely conducted in his GP practice, he advises parents of this and suggests alternative options (for example, referral to hospital care).

During the procedure, the infant is held comfortably still. Another person is always present to assist and respond to the infant’s needs if they are in any distress.

The family is advised to remain at the practice for at least an hour after the procedure and once the doctors is certain that the baby is not bleeding.

The doctor is available for aftercare and the arrangements for follow up are clear.

Written instructions for parents include a request to text or ring the doctor after their first check. The parents are advised to contact the doctor at any time by text or phone if they have any concerns. If this happens, the doctor will visit the baby at home or see him at the surgery, as is most appropriate.

The doctor encourages good practice among other providers by offering training in the procedure.

Ref: 

Advice for inspectors

Circumcision of male children

January 2016 Care Quality Commission