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Atomic Anesthesia

Rhea Temmermand, PhD, CRNA & Sachi Lord, MSN, CRNA

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.

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  • 28 episodes
  • weekly
  • Avg 21 min
  • English
Counted on this page — what you have heard stays on this device, so it is not something the list can be paged by.
  • #95
    May 20 · 23 min

    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 Brisbane Overview of International Federation of Nurse Anesthetists and global nurse anesthesia standards at IFNA.org Reflections 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)

  • #94
    April 20 · 11 min

    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 humans Recent cases, including 271 days of pig kidney support, show potential as a bridge to human transplant Key challenges include chronic rejection, coagulation mismatch, and evolving immunosuppression For 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)

  • #93
    April 3 · 19 min

    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 improving The 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 cycle Three practical mindset shifts to stop replaying mistakes and actually move on Real 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)

  • #92
    March 31 · 34 min

    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 phonation Functional airway anatomy of the supraglottic, glottic, and subglottic regions and why it matters during laryngoscopy and intubation How laryngeal cartilages and joints (especially the cricoid and arytenoids) drive vocal cord movement and airway patency Clinical patterns of nerve injury (SLN vs RLN) and how they present as hoarseness, aspiration risk, or airway obstruction Mechanisms, 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)

  • #91
    March 19 · 29 min

    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 about The psychological phases of the CRNA journey from application anxiety to early-semester overwhelm Why imposter syndrome is so common among SRNAs and how it affects high-achieving students Unrealistic expectations students bring into anesthesia school and what the learning curve actually looks like Practical 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)

  • #90
    March 10 · 11 min

    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 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]

  • #89
    March 2 · 22 min

    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 experience Military CRNA training pathway and selection standards Operational readiness and austere anesthesia environments Trauma intensity, deployment medicine, and prolonged field care Autonomy, 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)

  • #88
    February 24 · 13 min

    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] 💜 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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