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.
15episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
YOUR COPD PATIENT IS ON THE TABLE - NOW WHAT?
1w ago00:21:16Tap 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.💜 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)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 →SEVOFLURANE, ISOFLURANE, DESFLURANE: WHICH ONE AND WHEN?
2w ago00:30:00Tap 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 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, desflurane, nitrous oxide — with MAC values, blood:gas coefficients, and clinical trade-offsHow coronary steal actually works with isoflurane, and when it matters at the bedsideThe second gas effect explained at the alveolar level: concentrating effect + augmented inflowCompound A, carbon monoxide, methionine synthase inhibition — the metabolic pitfalls each agent brings to a caseTailoring agent choice for pediatric, geriatric, pregnant, neuro, and cardiac patients💜 FREE DOWNLOADS: Grab your copy of customized study plans & worksheets.GPCR Cheat Sheet — G-protein coupled receptors decoded for anesthesiaSEE/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 page💜 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.💜 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)FREE RESOURCE FOR THIS EPISODE:SEE/NCE Study Plan — A structured, week-by-week plan to pass your boards. Head to atomicanesthesia.com/freebies/see-nce-study-plan to grab it free.MORE FREE STUDY RESOURCES:Non-Opioid Pharmacology Cheat Sheet — Every non-opioid analgesic you need to know, on one pageGPCR Cheat Sheet — G-protein coupled receptors decoded for anesthesiaWANT 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 →STAYING COOL UNDER PRESSURE: LESSONS FROM A FLIGHT PARAMEDIC │ EP96
3w ago00:53:36Tap to summarizeWelcome 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.comIn 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 practice💜 FREE DOWNLOADS: Grab your copy of customized study plans & worksheets.[SEE/NCE STUDY PLAN] [RN ICU DRUG CHART]💜 CONNECT: 📥 Email questions, comments or topic suggestions to Sachi & Rhea at hello@atomicanesthesia.com, follow us on social media, and sign up for our newsletter.[NEWSLETTER SIGN-UP] [INSTAGRAM] [TIKTOK] [YOUTUBE]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 →WORLD CONGRESS OF NURSE ANESTHETISTS: WHAT I LEARNED IN THE DOWN UNDER │ EP95
May 2000:23:34Tap 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: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 nurse anesthesia standards at IFNA.orgReflections on global anesthesia practice, patient safety, and international collaboration.💜 FREE DOWNLOADS: Grab your copy of customized study plans & worksheets.[SEE/NCE STUDY PLAN] [RN ICU DRUG CHART]💜 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.[NEWSLETTER SIGN-UP] [INSTAGRAM] [TIKTOK] [YOUTUBE]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 →XENOTRANSPLANTATION: THE END OF ORGAN SHORTAGE? │ EP94
Apr 2000:11:25Tap 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.⚠️ 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 support, show potential as a bridge to human transplantKey challenges include chronic rejection, coagulation mismatch, and evolving immunosuppressionFor anesthesia, these patients bring unstable physiology, unpredictable hemodynamics, and increasing clinical relevance💜 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]💜 FREE DOWNLOADS: Grab your copy of customized study plans & worksheets.[SEE/NCE STUDY PLAN][RN ICU DRUG CHART]💜 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.[NEWSLETTER SIGN-UP][INSTAGRAM] [TIKTOK] [YOUTUBE]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 →STOP OVERTHINKING YOUR MISTAKES IN CRNA SCHOOL AND ACTUALLY MOVE ON │ EP93
Apr 300:19:39Tap 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.⚠️ 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 students get this wrong)How small moments in sim and clinical turn into mental spirals and how to stop that cycleThree practical mindset shifts to stop replaying mistakes and actually move onReal clinical and classroom examples of mistakes and how to handle them without losing confidence💜 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]💜 FREE DOWNLOADS: Grab your copy of customized study plans & worksheets.[SEE/NCE STUDY PLAN][RN ICU DRUG CHART]💜 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.[NEWSLETTER SIGN-UP][INSTAGRAM] [TIKTOK] [YOUTUBE]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 →MASTERING AIRWAY ANATOMY & NERVE INJURY FOR BOARDS AND EVERYDAY PRACTICE │ EP92
Mar 3100:34:30Tap 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.⚠️ 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 cricoid and arytenoids) drive vocal cord movement and airway patencyClinical patterns of nerve injury (SLN vs RLN) and how they present as hoarseness, aspiration risk, or airway obstructionMechanisms, triggers, and stepwise management of laryngospasm in the perioperative setting💜 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]💜 FREE DOWNLOADS: Grab your copy of customized study plans & worksheets.[SEE/NCE STUDY PLAN][RN ICU DRUG CHART]💜 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.[NEWSLETTER SIGN-UP][INSTAGRAM] [TIKTOK] [YOUTUBE]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 EMOTIONAL ROLLERCOASTER OF CRNA SCHOOL NO ONE WARNS YOU ABOUT │ EP91
Mar 1900:29:54Tap 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.⚠️ 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 and how it affects high-achieving studentsUnrealistic expectations students bring into anesthesia school and what the learning curve actually looks likePractical mindset shifts to navigate stress, build resilience, and succeed during the CRNA training journey💜 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]💜 FREE DOWNLOADS: Grab your copy of customized study plans & worksheets.[SEE/NCE STUDY PLAN][RN ICU DRUG CHART]💜 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.[NEWSLETTER SIGN-UP][INSTAGRAM] [TIKTOK] [YOUTUBE]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 →HOW OPIOIDS ACTUALLY WORK IN THE BODY (CELLULAR MECHANISM EXPLAINED) │ EP90
Mar 1000:11:55Tap 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.⚠️ 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 suppressing ascending nociceptive signaling and enhancing descending inhibitory pathways The physiologic basis of common opioid effects including respiratory depression, sedation, bradycardia, and GI effects💜 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]💜 FREE DOWNLOADS: Grab your copy of customized study plans & worksheets.[SEE/NCE STUDY PLAN][RN ICU DRUG CHART]💜 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.[NEWSLETTER SIGN-UP][INSTAGRAM] [TIKTOK] [YOUTUBE]
Transcribe →BUILT UNDER PRESSURE: LESSONS WE CAN ALL LEARN FROM MILITARY CRNA TRAINING │ EP89
Mar 200:22:04Tap 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.⚠️ 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 careAutonomy, leadership development, and high-stakes decision-making💜 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]💜 FREE DOWNLOADS: Grab your copy of customized study plans & worksheets.[SEE/NCE STUDY PLAN][RN ICU DRUG CHART]💜 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.[NEWSLETTER SIGN-UP][INSTAGRAM] [TIKTOK] [YOUTUBE]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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