Carlo Gonzalez, an employee of Florida Hospital, is more than just an Autopsy Specialist and member of the Hazmat team. He is an incredible asset to his team and an understanding, respectful member of his community. Carlo is known for going above and beyond in all aspects of his role. His nomination noted that, “He has completely transformed the morgue space, supplies, and demonstrated sharp organizational skills.” Mopec was grateful for the opportunity to ask him a few questions regarding his career.
Your nomination mentioned you are from Columbia where you also assisted with autopsies. How did you get into this profession? How did you get connected with Florida Hospital?
Carlo: I was in my second year at university in Colombia studying system engineering when in 1993, I received a call from a friend offering me a job to perform forensic autopsies. I accepted the opportunity. I then began my new profession at the Institute of Medical Examiner and Forensic Sciences studying Anatomy and Forensic Science. I connected with Florida Hospital through the opening of a position for Autopsy Specialist. I applied for the position and was accepted.
What is the most commonly overlooked safety issue that you come across as a member of the Hazmat team?
Carlo: The most commonly overlooked safety issue is ensuring there is adequate storage capacity for bodies in the event of a mass casualty.
Your nomination made note of your exceptional organizational skills and ability to appropriately answer all DNV inspector questions. What sorts of questions are posed during the morgue inspection?
Carlo: I recently explained to some DNV inspectors how we practice safety in the morgue, use complete personal protection equipment, checking for two patient identifiers prior to performing an autopsy, using document control in the morgue, and questions related to brain removal techniques.
We were made aware that you are incredibly respectful of the deceased in your facility, and that you have even gone out of your way to ensure spiritual needs of families are met. Can you tell us a little about these efforts?
Carlo: A couple of months ago a mother lost a child and an autopsy was ordered. The mother was unable to adequately say goodbye to her child, tell him how proud she was of him, and how much she loved him. Due to the circumstances, she asked me to tell him. At the beginning of the case, I took time to tell him how much his mother loved him and was proud of him, and then we prayed over him. Our director notified the child’s mother that this had occurred, and she was so very grateful. When I perform a case, I try to ensure the dignity of each deceased patient. I treat each deceased as a mother, father, son, daughter, etc. who has a family that loved them.
What do you find to be the most rewarding or most enjoyable aspect of your role at Florida Hospital?
Carlo: Giving patients’ families closure when their loved one passes away and having a new learning experience every day.
Carlo is a phenomenal team player and an inspiration in the pathology field. The Mopec team greatly appreciates his dedication and contributions to this industry.