https://club.hcqc.co.uk/c/self-audits/edit-lesson/sections/517639/lessons/2621128
Minor surgical procedures in general practice are routine, but they’re never low stakes.
Whether it’s the removal of a mole, a contraceptive implant fitting, or a joint injection — these moments involve invasive interventions, open skin, sterile instruments, and vulnerable patients. The infection risk might be low, but it’s not negligible. And if something goes wrong, the impact on patient safety — and the practice’s inspection outcome — can be significant.
That’s why this week’s audit shines a spotlight on the safety systems that underpin minor procedures.
What This Audit Covers
This audit doesn’t just check whether your gloves are clean and your instruments in-date. It helps you explore the full system that supports safe, effective minor surgery:
- Is aseptic technique clearly defined and followed?
- Are rooms and equipment properly prepared — every time?
- Are consent and aftercare recorded in a way that protects the patient and the clinician?
- Are the staff carrying out procedures appropriately trained and supported?
Why It Matters
CQC’s ‘We’ statements — especially those around infection control, safe environments, and governance — make it clear that practices must go beyond the basics. Inspectors are looking for evidence of consistency, systems, and oversight.
If you’re relying on the assumption that “it’s always been fine” or “our nurse always checks that,” you may be missing gaps that could lead to avoidable harm or scrutiny during an inspection.
Auditing these areas now means you don’t have to scramble later.
The Benefits of Getting This Right
By completing this audit, your practice can:
- Confirm you’re delivering safe, clean, effective minor surgical care
- Identify where protocols may be assumed but not written down
- Ensure staff are confident, supported, and following best practice
- Create assurance that procedures are not only safe — they’re inspectable
Minor procedures might not happen every day, but when they do, they matter. This audit helps you move from informal confidence to formal assurance — and that’s what great governance is all about.
Click the link below to join our Inner Circle today for just £1 for your first month and unlock full access to every CQC audit — your essential toolkit to feel fully prepared and inspection ready! 👇
