1. Pre-Assessment Consultation

Before the procedure, Dr Harris will conduct a thorough medical consultation and examine your baby.

• Medical Review: Evaluating all medical and surgical history to ensure your baby is fit for the procedure.

• Pain Management Plan: Dr Harris will explain the local anaesthesia technique—no needle injections required.

2. Timing & Feeding Schedule

To ensure your baby is comfortable and safe throughout:

• Feeding Guidelines: Dr Harris will provide specific guidance on when your baby should fast before the procedure. Immediately after the circumcision, feeding is strongly encouraged to soothe your baby.

• Scheduling: The exact date and time will be agreed upon with you in advance.

• Surgical Kit: You will be advised on the contents of the sterile surgical kit and dressings provided for the procedure.

3. Hygiene & Sterility Standards

Preventing infection is vital for a smooth recovery:

• Pre-Procedure Bath: Parents are advised to bathe the baby shortly before Dr Harris arrives.

• Antiseptic Scrub: Prior to the procedure, Dr Harris applies a broad-spectrum, hospital-grade antiseptic skin preparation (equivalent to surgical operating theatre standards) to eliminate bacteria and safeguard your baby.

4. Medication & Pain Relief Protocol

Dr Harris holds an Honorary Consulting Contract at Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children (GOSH) in London and strictly adheres to the official GOSH Pain Protocol (Good Practice in Postoperative and Procedural Pain).

• Paracetamol (Medinol/Acamol): Used widely at GOSH to effectively manage pain and control fever in infants.

• Administration: Please DO NOT give your baby any medication prior to the visit. Dr Harris will personally administer both the topical local anaesthetic cream and the appropriate oral dose of liquid paracetamol.

5. Formal Consent

Patient safety begins with informed decisions. Both parents are required to sign the official consent form prior to the procedure.

• Please review our dedicated Consent Section for full details.

6. Patient Safety & Clinical Excellence

Dr Harris believes in total transparency. You will be fully informed on all aspects of the process, including:

• Surgical indications and contraindications.

• Surgical Technique: Gentle, traditional surgical method—we DO NOT use a Plastibell or ring device.

• Potential risks and expected recovery timelines.

NatSSIPs Compliance

Dr Harris strictly follows the National Safety Standards for Invasive Procedures (NatSSIPs) mandated by NHS England and implemented via Great Ormond Street Hospital guidance. This framework ensures:

• Standardised Care: Consistent safety checks across the pre-operative, procedure, and post-operative stages.

• Zero-Tolerance for Errors: Strict protocol execution designed to prevent avoidable complications and "Never Events."

• A Culture of Safety: Patient-first care designed to minimise stress and maximize comfort for both baby and parents.

Have Questions? Dr Harris is always available to discuss any aspect of the procedure. Please feel free to raise any questions or concerns during your consultation.