Mad Minute with Carmen Colmenero

How and when were you first introduced to MCIRCC and the Pre-Clinical Critical Care Laboratory?
About two and a half years ago I discovered MCIRCC and the amazing work done by its members through Justin Jones. Looking to gain large animal experience, expand my medical knowledge and refine my surgical skills I learned of a job opening in Dr. Hakam Tiba’s Pre-Clinical Critical Care Lab. Under the guidance of Dr. Hakam Tiba and Brendan McCracken, I quickly gained a valuable skill set in advanced surgical techniques and a basic understanding of critical care surrounding sepsis, traumatic brain injury and cardiac arrest.

What is your favorite part about your role in the lab?
My job as the Lab Manager in MCIRCC’s Pre-Clinical Critical Care Lab requires critical thinking, problem solving, strong communication and a ton of team work on a daily basis. Our lab is a team sport, we play on each other’s strengths to successfully collect data and manage time sensitive and critical interventions. I learn something new almost every day I’m working, whether it be an administrative duty or an ability to recognize and resolve new hurdles in the lab. The best part of this job is the simple fact that things are never dull; I’m always learning, growing and strengthening my abilities.

Describe a study you have participated in that has most interested you.
Our study using bioimpedance to sense intracranial pressure through the eyes is one of the most interesting projects I’ve worked with yet. I find it astounding that a small electrical current delivered through a very portable device worn over the eyes can provided such valuable insight into an individual's cerebral autoregulation. This valuable insight into a person’s autoregulation, user friendly application and the portability of the device could prove to be a key tool in preventing secondary injury and potentially decrease the risk of permanent injury for patients suffering from TBI.

Being in the beginning of your career, how do you see your experience in the lab contributing to your professional long-term goals?
The surgical skill set, problem solving skills and medical knowledge I’ve gained are key in advancing towards a career in veterinary medicine. Although I’ve gained a great skill set already, I’m always trying to improve my ability to communicate, work as a team and improve my practical knowledge and experience. I’m grateful to have the opportunity to refine my abilities and I plan on using these skills to advance my career in veterinary medicine.

Do you have any exciting plans for the holidays that you’d like to share?
I will be traveling down to Houston, Texas to attend a traditional Pakistani wedding, then travel four hours south of Houston to spend time in my hometown with my family and friends. I will definitely be partaking in eating way too much traditional Mexican & south Texan food, e.g. tamales, menudo, pan de polvo and pumpkin empanadas and of course BBQ! I will be welcoming the new year with my family and more food, too.