Atomic Anesthesia
Welcome to Atomic Anesthesia, the essential podcast for nurse anesthesia residents seeking to master both basic and clinical science education (and RNs looking to become CRNAs, too!). Join us as we break down tough science concepts and demonstrating their practical clinical application in real-world scenarios. Each episode of Atomic Anesthesia is crafted to provide comprehensive explanations of complex scientific principles, tailored specifically for the needs of nurse anesthesia residents or nurses preparing for graduate school. Whether you're grappling with pharmacology, physiology, or any other challenging subject, our expert hosts are here to guide you through every step of the learning...
SEVOFLURANE, ISOFLURANE, DESFLURANE: WHICH ONE AND WHEN?
Welcome to the Atomic Anesthesia podcast hosted by CRNA professor Dr. Rhea Temmermand and Co-Founder Sachi Lord. On this show, you'll hear clear, clinically grounded discussions designed for nurse anesthesia residents and CRNAs who want to feel more confident in complex pharmacology, physiology, and real-world anesthesia decision-making.
Want more content like this? Become a member of our learning platform: http://atomicanesthesia.com
In this episode:
Why desflurane needs its own specialized Tec 6 vaporizer (and what its 22.8°C boiling point means for safe delivery)The four inhalational agents you need to know cold — sevoflurane, isoflurane, des...STAYING COOL UNDER PRESSURE: LESSONS FROM A FLIGHT PARAMEDIC │ EP96
Welcome to the Atomic Anesthesia podcast hosted by CRNA educators Rhea Temmermand and Sachi Lord. On this show, you'll hear clear, clinically grounded discussions designed for nurse anesthesia residents and CRNAs who want to feel more confident in complex pharmacology, physiology, and real-world anesthesia decision-making.
Want more content like this? Become a member of our learning platform: http://atomicanesthesia.com
In this episode:
Introduction to our new partners, Jake & John, from the IncomologistsLessons from John's experience as a flight paramedic that we can all apply to crisis management for anesthesia practiceđź’ś FREE DOW...
WORLD CONGRESS OF NURSE ANESTHETISTS: WHAT I LEARNED IN THE DOWN UNDER │ EP95
Welcome to the Atomic Anesthesia podcast hosted by CRNA professor Dr. Rhea Temmermand and Co-Founder Sachi Lord. On this show, you'll hear clear, clinically grounded discussions designed for nurse anesthesia residents and CRNAs who want to feel more confident in complex pharmacology, physiology, and real-world anesthesia decision-making.
Want more content like this? Become a member of our learning platform: http://atomicanesthesia.com
In this episode:
Atomic Anesthesia platform 2.0 updates, including faster performance and new study features.Highlights from the World Congress of Nurse Anesthetists in BrisbaneOverview of International Federation of Nurse Anesthetists and global...XENOTRANSPLANTATION: THE END OF ORGAN SHORTAGE? │ EP94
Welcome to the Atomic Anesthesia podcast hosted by CRNA professor Dr. Rhea Temmermand and Co-Founder Sachi Lord. On this show, you'll hear clear, clinically grounded discussions designed for nurse anesthesia residents and CRNAs who want to feel more confident in complex pharmacology, physiology, and real-world anesthesia decision-making.
Want more content like this? Become a member of our learning platform.
⚠️ SIGN UP FOR OUR FREE NEWSLETTER: [NEWSLETTER SIGN-UP]
In this episode:
Xenotransplantation is becoming clinically real, using genetic engineering to allow pig organs to function in humansRecent cases, including 271 days of pig kidney supp...STOP OVERTHINKING YOUR MISTAKES IN CRNA SCHOOL AND ACTUALLY MOVE ON │ EP93
Welcome to the Atomic Anesthesia podcast hosted by CRNA professor Dr. Rhea Temmermand and Co-Founder Sachi Lord. On this show, you'll hear clear, clinically grounded discussions designed for nurse anesthesia residents and CRNAs who want to feel more confident in complex pharmacology, physiology, and real-world anesthesia decision-making.
Want more content like this? Become a member of our learning platform.
⚠️ SIGN UP FOR OUR FREE NEWSLETTER: [NEWSLETTER SIGN-UP]
In this episode:
Why overthinking mistakes in CRNA school keeps you stuck instead of actually improvingThe difference between self-deprecation, reflection, and real growth (and why most...MASTERING AIRWAY ANATOMY & NERVE INJURY FOR BOARDS AND EVERYDAY PRACTICE │ EP92
Welcome to the Atomic Anesthesia podcast hosted by CRNA professor Dr. Rhea Temmermand and Co-Founder Sachi Lord. On this show, you'll hear clear, clinically grounded discussions designed for nurse anesthesia residents and CRNAs who want to feel more confident in complex pharmacology, physiology, and real-world anesthesia decision-making.
⚠️ SIGN UP FOR OUR FREE NEWSLETTER: [NEWSLETTER SIGN-UP]
In this episode:
How the larynx functions as a dynamic valve balancing ventilation, airway protection, and phonationFunctional airway anatomy of the supraglottic, glottic, and subglottic regions and why it matters during laryngoscopy and intubationHow laryngeal cartilages and joints (especially the...THE EMOTIONAL ROLLERCOASTER OF CRNA SCHOOL NO ONE WARNS YOU ABOUT │ EP91
Welcome to the Atomic Anesthesia podcast hosted by CRNA professor Dr. Rhea Temmermand and Co-Founder Sachi Lord. On this show, you'll hear clear, clinically grounded discussions designed for nurse anesthesia residents and CRNAs who want to feel more confident in complex pharmacology, physiology, and real-world anesthesia decision-making.
⚠️ SIGN UP FOR OUR FREE NEWSLETTER: [NEWSLETTER SIGN-UP]
In this episode:
Featuring SRNA Julie (“Grad School Jules”) discussing the emotional realities of CRNA school that students rarely talk aboutThe psychological phases of the CRNA journey from application anxiety to early-semester overwhelmWhy imposter syndrome is so common among SRNAs an...HOW OPIOIDS ACTUALLY WORK IN THE BODY (CELLULAR MECHANISM EXPLAINED) │ EP90
Welcome to the Atomic Anesthesia podcast hosted by CRNA professor Dr. Rhea Temmermand and Co-Founder Sachi Lord. On this show, you'll hear clear, clinically grounded discussions designed for nurse anesthesia residents and CRNAs who want to feel more confident in complex pharmacology, physiology, and real-world anesthesia decision-making.
⚠️ SIGN UP FOR OUR FREE NEWSLETTER: [NEWSLETTER SIGN-UP]
In this episode:
How opioids produce analgesia by decreasing synaptic transmission in central pain pathways rather than blocking nerve conduction μ, κ, and δ opioid receptor pharmacology and how Gi-coupled GPCR signaling alters calcium, potassium, and cAMP How opioids reduce pain by suppres...BUILT UNDER PRESSURE: LESSONS WE CAN ALL LEARN FROM MILITARY CRNA TRAINING │ EP89
Welcome to the Atomic Anesthesia podcast hosted by CRNA professor Dr. Rhea Temmermand and Co-Founder Sachi Lord. On this show, you'll hear clear, clinically grounded discussions designed for nurse anesthesia residents and CRNAs who want to feel more confident in complex pharmacology, physiology, and real-world anesthesia decision-making.
⚠️ SIGN UP FOR OUR FREE NEWSLETTER: [NEWSLETTER SIGN-UP]
In this episode:
Featuring Dr. Jerrol Wallace, DNP, CRNA, FAANA, FAAN, sharing firsthand insight into military nurse anesthesia training and deployment experienceMilitary CRNA training pathway and selection standardsOperational readiness and austere anesthesia environmentsTrauma intensity, deployment medicine, and prolonged field care...1 SINGLE TRAIT YOU NEED TO SURVIVE CRNA SCHOOL │ EP88
Welcome to the Atomic Anesthesia podcast hosted by CRNA professor Dr. Rhea Temmermand and Co-Founder Sachi Lord. On this show, you'll hear clear, clinically grounded discussions designed for nurse anesthesia residents and CRNAs who want to feel more confident in complex pharmacology, physiology, and real-world anesthesia decision-making.
⚠️ SIGN UP FOR OUR FREE NEWSLETTER: [NEWSLETTER SIGN-UP]
đź’ś LIVE WEBINAR: Save your seat on our monthly, free webinars. Replays are sent to your inbox and you get access to all of our previous webinars.
[WEBINAR SIGN UP]
đź’ś FREE DOWNLOADS: Grab your copy of customized study plan...
2 OF MY MOST CHALLENGING CASES AND WHAT THEY TAUGHT ME │ EP87
Welcome to the Atomic Anesthesia podcast hosted by CRNA professor Dr. Rhea Temmermand and Co-Founder Sachi Lord. On this show, you'll hear clear, clinically grounded discussions designed for nurse anesthesia residents and CRNAs who want to feel more confident in complex pharmacology, physiology, and real-world anesthesia decision-making.
⚠️ SIGN UP FOR OUR FREE NEWSLETTER: [NEWSLETTER SIGN-UP]
đź’ś LIVE WEBINAR: Save your seat on our monthly, free webinars. Replays are sent to your inbox and you get access to all of our previous webinars.
[WEBINAR SIGN UP]
đź’ś FREE DOWNLOADS: Grab your copy of customized study plan...
3 WAYS TO BECOME INVOLVED AS A SRNA/NAR TO SUPERBOOST YOUR CV │ EP86
Welcome to the Atomic Anesthesia podcast hosted by CRNA professor Dr. Rhea Temmermand and Co-Founder Sachi Lord. On this show, you'll hear clear, clinically grounded discussions designed for nurse anesthesia residents and CRNAs who want to feel more confident in complex pharmacology, physiology, and real-world anesthesia decision-making.
⚠️ SIGN UP FOR OUR FREE NEWSLETTER: [NEWSLETTER SIGN-UP]
đź’ś LIVE WEBINAR: Save your seat on our monthly, free webinars. Replays are sent to your inbox and you get access to all of our previous webinars.
[WEBINAR SIGN UP]
đź’ś FREE DOWNLOADS: Grab your copy of customized study plan...
4 SUBTLE MONITOR TRENDS YOU SHOULD NEVER IGNORE IN THE OR │ EP85
Welcome to the Atomic Anesthesia podcast hosted by CRNA professor Dr. Rhea Temmermand and Co-Founder Sachi Lord. On this show, you'll hear clear, clinically grounded discussions designed for nurse anesthesia residents and CRNAs who want to feel more confident in complex pharmacology, physiology, and real-world anesthesia decision-making.
⚠️ SIGN UP FOR OUR FREE NEWSLETTER: [NEWSLETTER SIGN-UP]
đź’ś LIVE WEBINAR: Save your seat on our monthly, free webinars. Replays are sent to your inbox and you get access to all of our previous webinars.
[WEBINAR SIGN UP]
đź’ś FREE DOWNLOADS: Grab your copy of customized study plan...
5 RARE BUT FATAL ANESTHESIA EMERGENCIES │ EP84
Welcome to the Atomic Anesthesia podcast hosted by CRNA professor Dr. Rhea Temmermand and Co-Founder Sachi Lord. On this show, you'll hear clear, clinically grounded discussions designed for nurse anesthesia residents and CRNAs who want to feel more confident in complex pharmacology, physiology, and real-world anesthesia decision-making.
⚠️ SIGN UP FOR OUR FREE NEWSLETTER: [NEWSLETTER SIGN-UP]
đź’ś LIVE WEBINAR: Save your seat on our monthly, free webinars. Replays are sent to your inbox and you get access to all of our previous webinars.
[WEBINAR SIGN UP]
đź’ś FREE DOWNLOADS: Grab your copy of customized study plan...
6 HABITS THAT MAKE CLINICAL A LOT LESS CHAOTIC [AND A LOT MORE FUN] │ EP83
Welcome to the Atomic Anesthesia podcast hosted by CRNA professor Dr. Rhea Temmermand and Co-Founder Sachi Lord. On this show, you'll hear clear, clinically grounded discussions designed for nurse anesthesia residents and CRNAs who want to feel more confident in complex pharmacology, physiology, and real-world anesthesia decision-making.
⚠️ SIGN UP FOR OUR FREE NEWSLETTER: [NEWSLETTER SIGN-UP]
đź’ś LIVE WEBINAR: Save your seat on our monthly, free webinars. Replays are sent to your inbox and you get access to all of our previous webinars.
[WEBINAR SIGN UP]
đź’ś FREE DOWNLOADS: Grab your copy of customized study plan...
7 PHARMACOLOGY CHEAT CODES THAT MAKE EVERY DRUG QUESTION CLICK │ EP82
Welcome to the Atomic Anesthesia podcast hosted by CRNA professor Dr. Rhea Temmermand and Co-Founder Sachi Lord. On this show, you'll hear clear, clinically grounded discussions designed for nurse anesthesia residents and CRNAs who want to feel more confident in complex pharmacology, physiology, and real-world anesthesia decision-making.
⚠️ SIGN UP FOR OUR FREE NEWSLETTER: [NEWSLETTER SIGN-UP]
In this episode:
One-week launch countdown plus a behind-the-scenes tour of the new Atomic Anesthesia platform.Overview of current features: 150+ lessons, quiz builder with 2,000+ questions, and gamified learning with avatars, gems, and leaderboards.Breakdown of seven core pharmacology concepts to m...8 STUDY TECHNIQUES TO MANAGE HIGH-VOLUME DIDACTIC CONTENT │ EP81
Welcome to the Atomic Anesthesia podcast hosted by CRNA professor Dr. Rhea Temmermand and Co-Founder Sachi Lord. On this show, you'll hear clear, clinically grounded discussions designed for nurse anesthesia residents and CRNAs who want to feel more confident in complex pharmacology, physiology, and real-world anesthesia decision-making.
⚠️ SIGN UP FOR OUR FREE NEWSLETTER: [NEWSLETTER SIGN-UP]
In this episode:
Focus on studying smarter, not longer, for better results in anesthesia school.Learn eight proven study techniques that actually improve retention.Apply each strategy with real-life examples tailored to SRNAs.Organize and condense notes for more effi...9 PHYSIOLOGY CONCEPTS EVERY CRNA MUST KNOW │ EP80
Welcome to the Atomic Anesthesia podcast hosted by CRNA professor Dr. Rhea Temmermand and Co-Founder Sachi Lord. On this show, you'll hear clear, clinically grounded discussions designed for nurse anesthesia residents and CRNAs who want to feel more confident in complex pharmacology, physiology, and real-world anesthesia decision-making.
⚠️ SIGN UP FOR OUR FREE NEWSLETTER: [NEWSLETTER SIGN-UP]
In this episode:
The 9 core physiology principles that explain most intraoperative instabilityWhy oxygen delivery matters more than a normal pulse ox readingV/Q mismatch, shunt vs. dead space, and managing real OR hypoxiaPreload, afterload, contractility, and what MAP actually mean...WHAT EXACTLY IS CRITICAL THINKING IN ANESTHESIA? THE CJM MODEL EXPLAINED │ EP79
Welcome to the Atomic Anesthesia podcast hosted by CRNA professor Dr. Rhea Temmermand and Co-Founder Sachi Lord. On this show, you'll hear clear, clinically grounded discussions designed for nurse anesthesia residents and CRNAs who want to feel more confident in complex pharmacology, physiology, and real-world anesthesia decision-making.
⚠️ SIGN UP FOR OUR FREE NEWSLETTER: [NEWSLETTER SIGN-UP]
Topics included in this episode:
How the clinical judgment model (CJM) helps SRNAs move beyond checklists to real‑time decision making in the OR.Four core phases of expert thinking: noticing, interpreting, responding, and reflecting.Practical OR examples to sharpe...WHY YOUR "STABLE" CIRRHOSIS PATIENT CAN CRASH ON INDUCTION │ EP78
Welcome to the Atomic Anesthesia podcast hosted by CRNA professor Dr. Rhea Temmermand and Co-Founder Sachi Lord. On this show, you'll hear clear, clinically grounded discussions designed for nurse anesthesia residents and CRNAs who want to feel more confident in complex pharmacology, physiology, and real-world anesthesia decision-making.
⚠️ SIGN UP FOR OUR FREE NEWSLETTER: [NEWSLETTER SIGN-UP]
Topics included in this episode:
Cirrhosis pathophysiology and portal hypertension.Compensated vs decompensated cirrhosis risk.Systemic effects: ascites, encephalopathy, coagulopathy, cardiomyopathy.Altered anesthetic drug metabolism and sensitivity.Anesthetic goals: preserve liver perfusion, avoid hypotension/bleeding.đź’ś LIVE WEBINAR: Save yo...
HOW TO [NOT] KILL YOUR AORTIC STENOSIS PATIENT │ EP77
Welcome to the Atomic Anesthesia podcast hosted by CRNA professor Dr. Rhea Temmermand and Co-Founder Sachi Lord. On this show, you'll hear clear, clinically grounded discussions designed for nurse anesthesia residents and CRNAs who want to feel more confident in complex pharmacology, physiology, and real-world anesthesia decision-making.
⚠️ SIGN UP FOR OUR FREE NEWSLETTER: [NEWSLETTER SIGN-UP]
Topics included in this episode:
Why myocardial ischemia is the main cause of perioperative collapse in severe aortic stenosisCore anesthetic goals: maintain preload, afterload, sinus rhythm, and controlled HRHow to choose anesthesia type and airway strategy in urgent noncardiac surg...CRASH, CODE OR CRUISE: IV ANESTHETIC CHOICES THAT CHANGE OUTCOMES [LIVE WEBINAR REPLAY] │ EP76
Welcome to the Atomic Anesthesia podcast hosted by CRNA professor Dr. Rhea Temmermand and Co-Founder Sachi Lord. On this show, you'll hear clear, clinically grounded discussions designed for nurse anesthesia residents and CRNAs who want to feel more confident in complex pharmacology, physiology, and real-world anesthesia decision-making.
⚠️ SIGN UP FOR OUR FREE NEWSLETTER: [NEWSLETTER SIGN-UP]
Topics included in this episode:
Application of IV anesthetic pharmacology to real clinical case scenarios rather than just PK/PD theory How to choose between propofol, ketamine, etomidate, and dexmedetomidine based on patient and surgical factors Decision frameworks for mana...DOES ANESTHESIA HARM THE BRAIN? A HARD LOOK AT THE DATA │ EP75
Welcome to the Atomic Anesthesia podcast hosted by CRNA professor Dr. Rhea Temmermand and Co-Founder Sachi Lord. On this show, you'll hear clear, clinically grounded discussions designed for nurse anesthesia residents and CRNAs who want to feel more confident in complex pharmacology, physiology, and real-world anesthesia decision-making.
⚠️ SIGN UP FOR OUR FREE NEWSLETTER: [NEWSLETTER SIGN-UP]
Topics included in this episode:
What current research shows about long-term cognitive effects of general anesthesia, including key findings from the MAAS studyHow perioperative neurocognitive disorders present, who is at risk, and how common they areThe pathophysiology behind postoperative cogn...PROPOFOL REPLACEMENT? CIPEPOFOL AND THE FUTURE OF HIGH-RISK CARDIAC INDUCTION │ EP74
Welcome to the Atomic Anesthesia podcast hosted by CRNA professor Dr. Rhea Temmermand and Co-Founder Sachi Lord. On this show, you'll hear clear, clinically grounded discussions designed for nurse anesthesia residents and CRNAs who want to feel more confident in complex pharmacology, physiology, and real-world anesthesia decision-making.
⚠️ SIGN UP FOR OUR FREE NEWSLETTER: [NEWSLETTER SIGN-UP]
Topics included in this episode:
Hemodynamic goals and risks during induction in severe aortic stenosis​Limitations and hypotensive effects of propofol in aortic stenosis patients​Pharmacology and potential advantages of cipepofol (ciprofol) as a propofol derivative​Key findings of the JAMA S...ANESTHESIA MACHINE CHECK: A STEP-BY-STEP WALKTHROUGH OF YOUR WORKSTATION │ EP73
Welcome to the Atomic Anesthesia podcast hosted by CRNA professor Dr. Rhea Temmermand and Co-Founder Sachi Lord. On this show, you'll hear clear, clinically grounded discussions designed for nurse anesthesia residents and CRNAs who want to feel more confident in complex pharmacology, physiology, and real-world anesthesia decision-making.
⚠️ SIGN UP FOR OUR FREE NEWSLETTER: [NEWSLETTER SIGN-UP]
Topics included in this episode:
Why a full anesthesia machine check matters​How to perform a systematic pre-use machine checkout​Understanding and testing safety features and failure modes​Checking ventilation, leak integrity, and waste gas handling​Using structured tools to build a f...NEW YEAR, NEW PROVIDER: ANESTHESIA RESOLUTIONS FOR 2026 │ EP72
Welcome to the Atomic Anesthesia podcast hosted by CRNA professor Dr. Rhea Temmermand and Co-Founder Sachi Lord. On this show, you'll hear clear, clinically grounded discussions designed for nurse anesthesia residents and CRNAs who want to feel more confident in complex pharmacology, physiology, and real-world anesthesia decision-making.
Topics included in this episode:
Academic anchor habits for SRNAs and new CRNAsDeliberate clinical practice, including “one skill per shift” and quick weekly case debriefs.​Mindset strategies like a “wins log” to fight imposter syndrome.​Professional growth through scary-but-safe opportunities, CRNA business basics, and exploring fellowship prerequisites.​Personal boundaries around sleep...KETAMINE UNLOCKED: MECHANISMS, DOSING & CLINICAL PEARLS │ EP71
Welcome to the Atomic Anesthesia podcast hosted by CRNA professor Dr. Rhea Temmermand and Co-Founder Sachi Lord. On this show, you'll hear clear, clinically grounded discussions designed for nurse anesthesia residents and CRNAs who want to feel more confident in complex pharmacology, physiology, and real-world anesthesia decision-making.
Topics included in this episode:
Ketamine’s dissociative mechanism and clinical applicationsDifferences between S- and R-ketamineHemodynamic and airway benefits in trauma and bronchospastic patientsMechanisms beyond NMDA antagonismDosing strategies for induction, sedation, and analgesic infusionsManaging emergence reactions, secretions, and ICP considerations💜 LIVE WEBINAR: Save your seat on our month...
IF I WENT BACK TO CRNA SCHOOL, I'D STUDY LIKE THIS INSTEAD │ EP70
Welcome to the Atomic Anesthesia podcast hosted by CRNA professor Dr. Rhea Temmermand and Co-Founder Sachi Lord. On this show, you'll hear clear, clinically grounded discussions designed for nurse anesthesia residents and CRNAs who want to feel more confident in complex pharmacology, physiology, and real-world anesthesia decision-making.
Topics included in this episode:
Perspective shifts with experience: how growth reshapes your learning and mindsetEffective study strategies: learning smarter with lasting retentionPhysiology over perfectionism: grounding complex topics in core principlesMemory maps for retention: turning scattered notes into visual frameworksBuilding networks early: connecting with mentors to boost confidenceDepth and...THE DEXMEDETOMIDINE PLAYBOOK: WHAT STRONG CRNAS NEED TO KNOW │ EP69
This episode of the Atomic Anesthesia Podcast focuses on dexmedetomidine (Precedex), a highly selective α2-adrenergic agonist that provides cooperative, arousable sedation, analgesia, anxiolysis, and sympatholysis with minimal respiratory depression for perioperative and ICU care. Aimed at nurse anesthesia residents, it reviews dexmedetomidine’s α2-selective pharmacology, rapid distribution and hepatic metabolism, and its ability to mimic non-REM sleep via locus coeruleus inhibition while significantly reducing MAC and opioid requirements. Listeners learn practical dosing strategies for OR, ICU, and procedural sedation, common indications such as awake fiberoptic intubation, MAC cases, withdrawal management, and pediatric emergence delirium, and key safety considerations including brad...
FROM TRAUMA BAYS TO BATTLEFIELDS: TRAINING PROVIDERS FOR AUSTERE ENVIRONMENTS │ EP68
In this episode of the Atomic Anesthesia Podcast, host Dr. Rhea Temmermand speaks with Michael Hoess, CRNA and Lead CRNA for Education at Cooper University Hospital, about the crucial role of CRNAs in austere and tactical medical environments. Drawing on over a decade of trauma and resuscitation experience, Mike shares how CRNAs contribute to training military and government medical teams operating in resource-limited or remote conditions. The discussion explores how core anesthesia principles adapt when blood banks, ventilators, or full surgical teams aren’t available, emphasizing the importance of airway control, hemodynamic management, and damage control resuscitation in the fi...
YOU JUST GOT INTO CRNA SCHOOL...NOW WHAT? │ EP67
In this episode of the Atomic Anesthesia Podcast, we’re talking to future nurse anesthetists who’ve just crushed the biggest milestone yet — getting accepted into CRNA school. Between acceptance and day one, there’s often a long waiting period, and this episode is your roadmap for using that time strategically. From tackling financial readiness and creating a solid academic foundation to preparing your family, refining your clinical skills in the ICU, and strengthening your mindset, we cover every step of the “Pre‑CRNA School Survival Checklist.” You’ll learn how to simplify your finances, refresh your physiology and pharmacology kno...
WHAT NOT TO DO WHEN WORKING WITH CRNA PRECEPTORS │ EP66
This episode of the Atomic Anesthesia Podcast features guest Cori James, DNP, CRNA, for a candid and practical discussion on what not to do when working with CRNA preceptors. Designed for nurse anesthesia residents, this conversation highlights the most common pitfalls students unknowingly fall into during clinical rotations—from over-socializing and being unprepared to showing poor teachability, lacking situational awareness, or demonstrating unsafe habits in the OR. Cori shares firsthand insights on maintaining professionalism, demonstrating initiative, and developing adaptability across different teaching styles. The episode also explores critical aspects of communication, infection control, and teamwork that can make or br...
PROPOFOL SECRETS YOUR PRECEPTORS EXPECT YOU TO KNOW │ EP65
In this episode of the Atomic Anesthesia Podcast, host Dr. Rhea Temmermand provides a detailed pharmacology review of propofol, the main IV sedative hypnotic used for induction, maintenance, and procedural sedation in anesthesia practice. The episode covers propofol’s drug class and chemistry, its lipid emulsion formulation and infection risk, and key physicochemical properties including high lipophilicity and protein binding. Listeners learn the mechanism of action at the GABA A receptor, translating into CNS effects, cardiovascular and respiratory depression, and no analgesia. The discussion walks through pharmacokinetics and context‑sensitive half‑time in a clinically practical way, tying concepts to inf...
ETOMIDATE + ADRENAL SUPPRESSION: IS IT CLINICALLY RELEVANT? │ EP64
This episode of the Atomic Anesthesia Podcast unpacks the real clinical risk of adrenal suppression after a single dose of etomidate, challenging common debates every anesthesia resident faces. Drawing on the latest studies, listeners will discover exactly which patient groups—cardiac, septic, trauma, pediatric, and elective—are actually vulnerable to etomidate’s effects, and when transient adrenal suppression matters for outcomes. The discussion highlights the drug’s unique origins, why its hemodynamic stability often outweighs risks in routine cases, and why infusions are off the table. Tune in for practical guidance on using etomidate safely, tips for steroid coverage in criti...
HOW TO CRUSH YOUR PEDIATRIC ANESTHESIA ROTATION │ EP63
In this episode of the Atomic Anesthesia Podcast, pediatric CRNA and educator Dr. Becky Motykiewicz presents a comprehensive guide for nurse anesthesia residents preparing for their pediatric anesthesia rotation. From preoperative communication strategies with parents and pediatric patients to practical tips for inhalational induction, airway management, and safe emergence, Dr. Motykiewicz shares her real-world advice. The discussion covers essential topics such as age-appropriate communication, preoperative assessment, differences in pediatric and adult induction, critical emergency drugs and dosages, IV equipment considerations, and safe practices for emergence and extubation. Lists of must-know calculations, including formulas for endotracheal tube size, IV fluids...
THE EDUCATOR'S TRACK: HOW CRNAs STEP INTO TEACHING W/ DR. HALLIE EVANS │ EP62
In this episode of the Atomic Anesthesia Podcast, we talk with Dr. Hallie D. Evans, DNP, CRNA, APRN, CNE, a nationally recognized nurse anesthesia educator and clinician, about what it takes for CRNAs to step into the world of teaching. Dr. Evans discusses how her journey from clinical anesthesia to academic leadership began, the personal qualities that make an effective educator, and how to determine if you have the right temperament for academia. Listeners will learn the practical steps to becoming a nurse anesthesia educator, essential skills to develop when transitioning from the OR to the classroom, and what...
BLOW, BOOZE & BENNIES: ACUTE INTOXICATION & ANESTHESIA | EP61
In this episode of the Atomic Anesthesia Podcast, we tackle the complex reality of caring for patients under the influence of drugs or alcohol, a frequent challenge for nurse anesthesia residents and CRNAs. Covering the physiological effects and anesthetic implications of acute and chronic intoxication with alcohol, benzodiazepines, hallucinogens (such as LSD, PCP, and MDMA), cocaine, and cannabinoids, this episode offers fast, practical guidance for optimizing perioperative care and minimizing patient risk. Listeners will learn how substance use alters anesthetic requirements, impacts drug metabolism, and poses unique airway and hemodynamic risks, while also receiving actionable tips for drug class-specific...
FROM NURSE PRACTITIONER TO CRNA W/ DR. DAVID WARREN │ EP60
In this episode of the Atomic Anesthesia Podcast, we connected with Dr. David Warren, DNP, CRNA, NP to discuss the unique journey of transitioning from nurse practitioner to nurse anesthesiologist. Dr. Warren shares insights from his clinical practice, case mix, and favorite patient populations while reflecting on how his background as an NP shaped his approach to anesthesia. Listeners will learn how previous advanced practice experience can both prepare and challenge those entering CRNA training, the advantages it can bring to clinical practice, and the mindset needed to succeed in this career shift. Dr. Warren also talks about his...
PERIPHERAL VASCULAR DISEASE & VASCULAR ANESTHESIA (PART 2) │ EP59
In this episode of the Atomic Anesthesia Podcast, host Dr. Rhea Temmermand is joined by vascular anesthesia expert Rick Heuermann, DNP, MBA, CRNA, to unravel the complex pathophysiology of peripheral vascular disease (PVD) and its impact on anesthetic management. Together, they break down healthy versus diseased arterial function, highlight why patients with PVD present unique challenges in the OR, and provide practical, evidence-based strategies for optimizing hemodynamics and minimizing perioperative risks in vascular surgery. Whether a seasoned clinician or a student navigating CRNA school, listeners will gain clinical insight and case-based wisdom for safer, more effective care of patients...
PERIPHERAL VASCULAR DISEASE & VASCULAR ANESTHESIA (PART 1) │ EP58
In this episode of the Atomic Anesthesia Podcast, host Dr. Rhea Temmermand is joined by vascular anesthesia expert Rick Heuermann, DNP, MBA, CRNA, to unravel the complex pathophysiology of peripheral vascular disease (PVD) and its impact on anesthetic management. Together, they break down healthy versus diseased arterial function, highlight why patients with PVD present unique challenges in the OR, and provide practical, evidence-based strategies for optimizing hemodynamics and minimizing perioperative risks in vascular surgery. Whether a seasoned clinician or a student navigating CRNA school, listeners will gain clinical insight and case-based wisdom for safer, more effective care of patients...
