Podcast
Atomic Anesthesia
Hosted by Rhea Temmermand, PhD, CRNA & Sachi Lord, MSN, CRNA · EN
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 process.
But we don't stop there. Atomic Anesthesia goes beyond the classroom, inviting esteemed guests from both the scientific and CRNA communities to share their insights and experiences. From discussions on graduate school training to invaluable tips for navigating the complexities of clinical practice, our diverse range of topics ensures that every episode is packed with valuable knowledge and practical advice.
Whether you're commuting to clinicals, hitting the gym, or simply relaxing at home, Atomic Anesthesia is the perfect companion for learning on the go. Tune in and empower yourself with the knowledge and skills you need to excel in your journey towards becoming a proficient and confident nurse anesthethesiologist.
24episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
REGIONAL ANESTHESIA 101: BLOCKS EVERY CRNA SHOULD KNOW │ EP107
Yesterday00:14:14Tap to summarizeRegional anesthesia is one of the highest-yield, most heavily tested areas on the boards, but most review content buries the clinically useful details under anatomy that never gets asked. This episode breaks down the brachial plexus approaches boards actually tests, the truncal and lower extremity blocks showing up in modern multimodal protocols, and the complication patterns examiners use as answer traps.In this episode:The four brachial plexus approaches and why phrenic nerve risk drops as you move from interscalene to axillaryWhy adductor canal block has replaced femoral nerve block for TKA, and the volume myths that trip up test-takersThe LAST risk hierarchy by injection site, and the Exparel interaction rules boards loves to testFREE RESOURCES:SEE/NCE Study Plan — A structured, week-by-week plan to pass your boardsGPCR Cheat Sheet — G-protein coupled receptors decoded for anesthesia.Non-Opioid Pharmacology Cheat Sheet — Every non-opioid analgesic you need to know, on one pageMalignant Hyperthermia Reference Guide — Recognize MH fast. Treat it faster — one-page referenceWANT THE FULL PLATFORM?Atomic Anesthesia is the all-in-one study platform built specifically for SRNAs — lessons, quizzes, flashcards, and more. Start your free trial at atomicanesthesia.com.
Transcribe →THE 5 OPIOIDS YOU ACTUALLY USE IN THE OR │ EP106
1w ago00:13:38Tap to summarizeUnderstanding opioid selection in the OR is all about recognizing pharmacokinetics and how they align with surgical needs and patient factors, rather than focusing solely on receptor effects. This episode explores the five opioids you use most—morphine, fentanyl, sufentanil, remifentanil, and hydromorphone—and offers a framework for choosing optimally among them.Opioid receptor mechanisms and their clinical outcomesLipid solubility's role in opioid kineticsPharmacokinetics of morphine, fentanyl, sufentanil, remifentanil, and hydromorphoneManaging side effects like respiratory depression and opioid-induced hyperalgesiaGuidelines for opioid selection based on case specifics and patient renal functionResourcesAtomic Anesthesia Platform — In-depth lessons and quizzes on each opioid.FREE RESOURCE FOR THIS EPISODE:GPCR Cheat Sheet — G-protein coupled receptors decoded for anesthesia. Head to atomicanesthesia.com/freebies/gpcr-cheat-sheet to grab it free.MORE FREE STUDY RESOURCES:SEE/NCE Study Plan — A structured, week-by-week plan to pass your boardsNon-Opioid Pharmacology Cheat Sheet — Every non-opioid analgesic you need to know, on one pageMalignant Hyperthermia Reference Guide — Recognize MH fast. Treat it faster — one-page referenceWANT THE FULL PLATFORM?Atomic Anesthesia is the all-in-one study platform built specifically for SRNAs — lessons, quizzes, flashcards, and more. Start your free trial at atomicanesthesia.com.Mentioned in this episode:💜 PARTNERS: The Incomologists®https://theincomologists.com/ You work hard caring for others—let us take care of you. Whether you’re a W-2 employee or transitioning to a 1099 role, we understand the unique challenges healthcare professionals face, from insurance coverage to financial planning. That’s where we step in. Like you, we are a team of healthcare providers who understand your needs and help you find tailored insurance plans and financial strategies without the hassle or pressure. And we’re a partner you can rely on, today and in the future. We evaluate all available options and resources in the market to protect our clients, so contact us, and we’ll get started! - Jake Bevilacqua, CRNA (jake@theincomologists.com)
Transcribe →COMPLEX I, SEVOFLURANE, AND THE VENEZUELAN MITOCHONDRIAL VARIANT │ EP105
2w ago00:13:53Tap to summarizeA recently identified genetic mutation, passed down on the maternal line, can cause otherwise healthy patients to develop severe and often permanent neurological injury after routine sevoflurane exposure. This episode breaks down the underlying mitochondrial mechanism, why TIVA with propofol is the safer anesthetic strategy, and the family history red flags every provider should be screening for.A newly identified genetic mutation that turns routine sevoflurane exposure into catastrophic, permanent neurological injuryThe mitochondrial mechanism behind it, and why some patients have zero reserve capacity to absorb the hitWhy TIVA with propofol becomes the clear anesthetic choice once you understand what spares Complex ISource: Sanz-Pons J, et al. "Effects of a Mitochondrial Genetic Variant on Sevoflurane Hypersensitivity." Anesthesiology 2026;144:1286–98.FREE RESOURCE FOR THIS EPISODE:GPCR Cheat Sheet — G-protein coupled receptors decoded for anesthesia. Head to atomicanesthesia.com/freebies/gpcr-cheat-sheet to grab it free.MORE FREE STUDY RESOURCES:SEE/NCE Study Plan — A structured, week-by-week plan to pass your boardsNon-Opioid Pharmacology Cheat Sheet — Every non-opioid analgesic you need to know, on one pageMalignant Hyperthermia Reference Guide — Recognize MH fast. Treat it faster — one-page referenceWANT THE FULL PLATFORM?Atomic Anesthesia is the all-in-one study platform built specifically for SRNAs — lessons, quizzes, flashcards, and more. Start your free trial at atomicanesthesia.com.Mentioned in this episode:💜 PARTNERS: The Incomologists®https://theincomologists.com/ You work hard caring for others—let us take care of you. Whether you’re a W-2 employee or transitioning to a 1099 role, we understand the unique challenges healthcare professionals face, from insurance coverage to financial planning. That’s where we step in. Like you, we are a team of healthcare providers who understand your needs and help you find tailored insurance plans and financial strategies without the hassle or pressure. And we’re a partner you can rely on, today and in the future. We evaluate all available options and resources in the market to protect our clients, so contact us, and we’ll get started! - Jake Bevilacqua, CRNA (jake@theincomologists.com)
Transcribe →PROPOFOL: THE DRUG YOU THINK YOU KNOW │ EP104
2w ago00:12:54Tap to summarizePropofol, a cornerstone in anesthesia practice, functions as a positive allosteric modulator at the GABA-A receptor. This episode explores its receptor pharmacology, the mechanisms behind its dose-dependent clinical effects, and addresses common questions like propofol infusion syndrome and pain on injection.Receptor pharmacology and allosteric modulationPharmacokinetics and context-sensitive half-timeCardiac and respiratory effectsRisk and management of propofol infusion syndromeHandling egg allergy concernsStrategies to reduce pain on injectionFREE RESOURCE FOR THIS EPISODE:GPCR Cheat Sheet — G-protein coupled receptors decoded for anesthesia. Head to atomicanesthesia.com/freebies/gpcr-cheat-sheet to grab it free.MORE FREE STUDY RESOURCES:SEE/NCE Study Plan — A structured, week-by-week plan to pass your boardsNon-Opioid Pharmacology Cheat Sheet — Every non-opioid analgesic you need to know, on one pageMalignant Hyperthermia Reference Guide — Recognize MH fast. Treat it faster — one-page referenceWANT THE FULL PLATFORM?Atomic Anesthesia is the all-in-one study platform built specifically for SRNAs — lessons, quizzes, flashcards, and more. Start your free trial at atomicanesthesia.com.Mentioned in this episode:💜 PARTNERS: The Incomologists®https://theincomologists.com/ You work hard caring for others—let us take care of you. Whether you’re a W-2 employee or transitioning to a 1099 role, we understand the unique challenges healthcare professionals face, from insurance coverage to financial planning. That’s where we step in. Like you, we are a team of healthcare providers who understand your needs and help you find tailored insurance plans and financial strategies without the hassle or pressure. And we’re a partner you can rely on, today and in the future. We evaluate all available options and resources in the market to protect our clients, so contact us, and we’ll get started! - Jake Bevilacqua, CRNA (jake@theincomologists.com)
Transcribe →HIGH & TOTAL SPINAL: THE EARLIEST SYMPTOMS YOU'LL NEED TO KNOW FOR BOARDS │ EP103
3w ago00:14:29Tap to summarizeWelcome 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.comIn this episode:The critical distinction between high spinal and total spinal that everyone can define but few can actually tell apartWhy a negative aspiration on a labor epidural doesn't guarantee the catheter isn't sitting in CSFThe board favorite scenario where a spinal stacked on a failed epidural top off becomes one of the highest risk setups for total spinalWhy blood pressure stays normal in over half of total spinal cases and what the earliest reliable warning sign really is💜 FREE DOWNLOADS: Grab your copy of customized study plans & worksheets.SEE/NCE Study Plan — a structured, week-by-week plan to pass your boardsNon-Opioid Pharmacology Cheat Sheet — every non-opioid analgesic you need to know, one pageGPCR Cheat Sheet — G-protein coupled receptors decoded for anesthesia💜 CONNECT: 📥 Email questions, comments or topic suggestions to Rhea or Sachi at hello@atomicanesthesia.com, follow us on social media, and sign up for our newsletter.Mentioned in this episode:💜 PARTNERS: The Incomologists®https://theincomologists.com/ You work hard caring for others—let us take care of you. Whether you’re a W-2 employee or transitioning to a 1099 role, we understand the unique challenges healthcare professionals face, from insurance coverage to financial planning. That’s where we step in. Like you, we are a team of healthcare providers who understand your needs and help you find tailored insurance plans and financial strategies without the hassle or pressure. And we’re a partner you can rely on, today and in the future. We evaluate all available options and resources in the market to protect our clients, so contact us, and we’ll get started! - Jake Bevilacqua, CRNA (jake@theincomologists.com)
Transcribe →THE STUDENT-PRECEPTOR RELATIONSHIP: WHAT TO EXPECT, HOW TO THRIVE, AND WHAT ACTUALLY MATTERS (PART 2) │ EP102
4w ago00:29:14Tap to summarizeWelcome 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.comIn this episode:Jake and Alex discuss The non-clinical conversations every preceptor should be having, including finances, the post-graduation credentialing gap, and disability insuranceWhy student wellbeing directly affects learning and the small ways preceptors can protect itThe difference between the right way, the wrong way, and just your wayWhy precepting is the highest-leverage thing you do as a CRNA and how one tip can ripple through generations of providers💜 FREE DOWNLOADS: Grab your copy of customized study plans & worksheets.SEE/NCE Study Plan — a structured, week-by-week plan to pass your boardsNon-Opioid Pharmacology Cheat Sheet — every non-opioid analgesic you need to know, one pageGPCR Cheat Sheet — G-protein coupled receptors decoded for anesthesia💜 CONNECT: 📥 Email questions, comments or topic suggestions to Rhea or Sachi at hello@atomicanesthesia.com, follow us on social media, and sign up for our newsletter.Mentioned in this episode:💜 PARTNERS: The Incomologists®https://theincomologists.com/ You work hard caring for others—let us take care of you. Whether you’re a W-2 employee or transitioning to a 1099 role, we understand the unique challenges healthcare professionals face, from insurance coverage to financial planning. That’s where we step in. Like you, we are a team of healthcare providers who understand your needs and help you find tailored insurance plans and financial strategies without the hassle or pressure. And we’re a partner you can rely on, today and in the future. We evaluate all available options and resources in the market to protect our clients, so contact us, and we’ll get started! - Jake Bevilacqua, CRNA (jake@theincomologists.com)
Transcribe →THE STUDENT-PRECEPTOR RELATIONSHIP: WHAT TO EXPECT, HOW TO THRIVE, AND WHAT ACTUALLY MATTERS (PART 1) │ EP101
4w ago00:41:52Tap to summarizeWelcome 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.comIn this episode:Jake and Alex discuss the most important relationship in CRNA school and why the transition to preceptor happens before most new grads feel readyHow to set the right tone from day one, give students an appropriate leash, and know when to step inWhy letting students safely get into trouble is more powerful than telling them what not to doHow to deliver honest, constructive feedback, including praise in public, correction in private, and debriefs that students lead themselves💜 FREE DOWNLOADS: Grab your copy of customized study plans & worksheets.SEE/NCE Study Plan — a structured, week-by-week plan to pass your boardsNon-Opioid Pharmacology Cheat Sheet — every non-opioid analgesic you need to know, one pageGPCR Cheat Sheet — G-protein coupled receptors decoded for anesthesia💜 CONNECT: 📥 Email questions, comments or topic suggestions to Rhea or Sachi at hello@atomicanesthesia.com, follow us on social media, and sign up for our newsletter.Mentioned in this episode:💜 PARTNERS: The Incomologists®https://theincomologists.com/ You work hard caring for others—let us take care of you. Whether you’re a W-2 employee or transitioning to a 1099 role, we understand the unique challenges healthcare professionals face, from insurance coverage to financial planning. That’s where we step in. Like you, we are a team of healthcare providers who understand your needs and help you find tailored insurance plans and financial strategies without the hassle or pressure. And we’re a partner you can rely on, today and in the future. We evaluate all available options and resources in the market to protect our clients, so contact us, and we’ll get started! - Jake Bevilacqua, CRNA (jake@theincomologists.com)
Transcribe →THE BIGGEST THING HOLDING YOU BACK (PSST...ITS NOT YOUR TALENT) │ EP100
Jul 1400:25:43Tap to summarizeWelcome 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.comIn this episode:Why your biggest limitation is often your mindset, not your intelligence, work ethic, or backgroundHow to build real confidence through action, overcome self-doubt, and break through limiting beliefsWhy thinking bigger, embracing bold goals, and challenging your own ceiling creates new opportunitiesHow true success is measured by the impact you have on others and using your achievements to elevate your community💜 FREE DOWNLOADS: Grab your copy of customized study plans & worksheets.SEE/NCE Study Plan — a structured, week-by-week plan to pass your boardsNon-Opioid Pharmacology Cheat Sheet — every non-opioid analgesic you need to know, one pageGPCR Cheat Sheet — G-protein coupled receptors decoded for anesthesia💜 CONNECT: 📥 Email questions, comments or topic suggestions to Rhea or Sachi at hello@atomicanesthesia.com, follow us on social media, and sign up for our newsletter.💜 PARTNERS: The Incomologists®https://theincomologists.com/You work hard caring for others—let us take care of you. Whether you're a W-2 employee or transitioning to a 1099 role, we understand the unique challenges healthcare professionals face, from insurance coverage to financial planning. That's where we step in.Like you, we are a team of healthcare providers who understand your needs and help you find tailored insurance plans and financial strategies without the hassle or pressure. And we're a partner you can rely on, today and in the future.We evaluate all available options and resources in the market to protect our clients, so contact us, and we'll get started! — Jake Bevilacqua, CRNA (info@theincomologists.com)
Transcribe →MECHANICAL VENTILATION MODE BASICS EVERY SRNA/NAR SHOULD KNOW │ EP99
Jul 700:26:13Tap to summarizeWelcome 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.comIn this episode:The major ventilation modes used on anesthesia machines, including volume control, pressure control, PCV-VG, and pressure support ventilationHow each mode works, what it guarantees, and the key advantages and limitations of eachHow to choose the right mode for common OR scenarios like obesity, laparoscopic surgery, Trendelenburg positioning, and LMA casesPractical ventilation pearls, including lung-protective tidal volumes, PEEP, airway pressures, and recognizing changes in pulmonary complianceA simple framework for understanding any ventilator mode without memorizing manufacturer-specific names or buttons💜 FREE DOWNLOADS: Grab your copy of customized study plans & worksheets.SEE/NCE Study Plan — a structured, week-by-week plan to pass your boardsNon-Opioid Pharmacology Cheat Sheet — every non-opioid analgesic you need to know, one pageGPCR Cheat Sheet — G-protein coupled receptors decoded for anesthesia💜 CONNECT: 📥 Email questions, comments or topic suggestions to Rhea or Sachi at hello@atomicanesthesia.com, follow us on social media, and sign up for our newsletter.Mentioned in this episode:💜 PARTNERS: The Incomologists®https://theincomologists.com/ You work hard caring for others—let us take care of you. Whether you’re a W-2 employee or transitioning to a 1099 role, we understand the unique challenges healthcare professionals face, from insurance coverage to financial planning. That’s where we step in. Like you, we are a team of healthcare providers who understand your needs and help you find tailored insurance plans and financial strategies without the hassle or pressure. And we’re a partner you can rely on, today and in the future. We evaluate all available options and resources in the market to protect our clients, so contact us, and we’ll get started! - Jake Bevilacqua, CRNA (jake@theincomologists.com)
Transcribe →YOUR COPD PATIENT IS ON THE TABLE - NOW WHAT? │ EP98
Jun 1600:21:16Tap to summarizeWelcome 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.comIn this episode:Why COPD is more than a lung problem — how alveolar destruction, V/Q mismatch, and cor pulmonale connect at the bedsideHow to ventilate a COPD patient intraoperatively: I:E ratios, PEEP strategy, and avoiding auto-PEEPThe pharmacology of bronchodilators — LABAs, LAMAs, and inhaled corticosteroids — and which ones to continue on the day of surgeryAnesthetic agent selection for reactive airways: why volatile agents help, why nitrous oxide doesn't, and when to consider TIVAPostoperative priorities: extubation to NIV, oxygen titration in CO2 retainers, and preventing reintubation💜 FREE DOWNLOADS: Grab your copy of customized study plans & worksheets.SEE/NCE Study Plan — a structured, week-by-week plan to pass your boardsNon-Opioid Pharmacology Cheat Sheet — every non-opioid analgesic you need to know, one pageGPCR Cheat Sheet — G-protein coupled receptors decoded for anesthesia💜 CONNECT: 📥 Email questions, comments or topic suggestions to Dr. Temmermand at hello@atomicanesthesia.com, follow us on social media, and sign up for our newsletter.Mentioned in this episode:💜 PARTNERS: The Incomologists®https://theincomologists.com/ You work hard caring for others—let us take care of you. Whether you’re a W-2 employee or transitioning to a 1099 role, we understand the unique challenges healthcare professionals face, from insurance coverage to financial planning. That’s where we step in. Like you, we are a team of healthcare providers who understand your needs and help you find tailored insurance plans and financial strategies without the hassle or pressure. And we’re a partner you can rely on, today and in the future. We evaluate all available options and resources in the market to protect our clients, so contact us, and we’ll get started! - Jake Bevilacqua, CRNA (jake@theincomologists.com)
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