Episodes

  • TRAUMA ANESTHESIA SERIES (PART 1): ADVANCED TRAUMA LIFE SUPPORT & DAMAGE CONTROL SURGERY | EP45
    Aug 25 2025

    In this first installment of the Trauma and Burn Anesthesia series, we dive into the critical foundations of caring for severely injured patients in the perioperative setting. Designed for nurse anesthesiologists and nurse anesthesia residents, this episode reviews the guiding principles of Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS) and explores how these frameworks shape anesthetic decision-making. We also walk through the concepts of damage control surgery and damage control resuscitation, emphasizing their role in stabilizing critically ill trauma patients, optimizing outcomes, and prioritizing life over limb. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of how resuscitation strategy, surgical timing, and anesthetic management intersect when every second matters. Whether you’re new to trauma anesthesia or refining your expertise, this episode sets the stage for a high-yield exploration of trauma and burn care.

    Want to learn more? Create a FREE account at www.atomicanesthesia.com


    ⚛️ CONNECT:

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    📥 Have a topic you want to hear? Email Dr. Temmermand at hello@atomicanesthesia.com

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    47 mins
  • TWO LIVES, ONE CRISIS: MATERNAL CARDIAC ARREST UNPACKED | EP 44
    Aug 18 2025

    This episode delivers a high-impact overview of maternal cardiac arrest—a rare but profoundly challenging emergency that demands rapid intervention and seamless multidisciplinary teamwork. Listeners will learn about the recognizable causes, unique pregnancy physiology, and critical modifications for resuscitation, including when to implement perimortem cesarean delivery. The discussion highlights the anesthesia provider’s leadership role, the value of simulation training, and actionable strategies to improve outcomes for both mother and baby. Whether in anesthesia, obstetrics, or nursing, this episode provides concise, evidence-based insights to prepare you for one of the highest-stakes situations in clinical practice.

    ⚛️ CONNECT:

    🩷 Subscribe to our YouTube channel

    💜 Follow us on Instagram

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    📥 Have a topic you want to hear? Email Dr. Temmermand at hello@atomicanesthesia.com


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    16 mins
  • "SNEAK PEEK" COMPETITION - ATOMIC PLATFORM UPDATE | EP43
    Aug 5 2025

    You spoke, we listened.

    CRNA school is extremely demanding--tight schedules, limited resources, and tough academic and clinical challenges. Not to mention, self-doubt and burnout are all too real.

    You shouldn't have to face CRNA school alone.

    After 2 years of researching, designing and building, we're excited to finally share our next-generation educational platform for CRNAs. Here's a sneak peek of what you'll find:

    • A space-themed platform to make learning entertaining
    • Interactive lessons with multimedia features, plus dark and light mode
    • A community hub to connect with other CRNAs, NARs and RNs
    • Gamification with space gems, badges, exclusive gear, levels and leaderboards

    And that’s just the beginning! Our official launch is right around the corner with even more major features, including a quiz bank and flashcard builder—just as many of you requested.

    Here’s how to join our “SNEAK PEEK COMPETITION” this Sunday, August 10th at 8 am CST:

    1. Attend the AANA Annual Congress in person, or join our competition from home.

    2. Find Rhea or Sachi at the event to get your lanyard, a free drug badge, and instructions. If you are joining from home, visit our website (www.atomicanesthesia.com).

    3. Create a FREE account.

    4. Complete the Atomic Missions to earn space gems and win prizes!

    The competition runs for just a few days, so sign up this weekend for your chance to win BIG.

    Don’t let overwhelm and stress take over. Our platform offers engaging content and a strong community so you can master complex anesthesia concepts and feel confident and supported.

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    14 mins
  • COULD THIS NEW NON-OPIOID COMPLETELY REPLACE FENTANYL? | EP 42
    Jul 15 2025

    Discover the future of pain management on this episode of Atomic Anesthesia as we explore a major breakthrough: the FDA approval of suzetrigine, a first-in-class, nonopioid pain medication. Guided by cutting-edge research and expert editorial insight from Anesthesiology, we dig into how suzetrigine works—targeting the NaV1.8 sodium channel in peripheral nerves—and what this means for patients and providers facing acute pain. You’ll hear about the pivotal NAVIGATE clinical trials, real-world patient experiences, and the medication’s advantages over traditional opioids, including fewer side effects and no risk of addiction. Whether you’re a healthcare professional, patient, or someone passionate about medical innovation, join us to learn how suzetrigine is poised to reshape pain relief and help bridge the gap left by the opioid crisis.

    References:

    • Bertoch T, D'Aunno D, McCoun J, Solanki D, Taber L, Urban J, Oswald J, Swisher MW, Tian S, Miao X, Correll DJ, Negulescu P, Bozic C, Weiner SG. Suzetrigine, a Nonopioid Na V 1.8 Inhibitor for Treatment of Moderate-to-severe Acute Pain: Two Phase 3 Randomized Clinical Trials. Anesthesiology. 2025 Jun 1;142(6):1085-1099. doi: 10.1097/ALN.0000000000005460. Epub 2025 Mar 21. PMID: 40117446; PMCID: PMC12061372.
    • Rathmell JP, Clark JD, Eisenach JC. Suzetrigine: First in a New Class of Nonopioid Analgesics for Acute Pain. Anesthesiology. 2025 Jun 1;142(6):989-991. doi: 10.1097/ALN.0000000000005465. Epub 2025 May 13. PMID: 40358331.

    🎉 FREE RESOURCES:

    [FREE DOWNLOAD] FOR THE SRNA: GRAB YOUR FREE SEE/NCE STUDY PLAN HERE

    [FREE DOWNLOAD] FOR THE RN: GRAB YOUR FREE ICU DRUG CHART HERE

    Check out our other free resources at AtomicAnesthesia.com

    ⚛️ TOOLS YOU MIGHT LIKE:

    🫀Cardiac Pharmacology Course

    💉Our popular Triple Badge Buddy & other swag here

    ⚛️ CONNECT:

    🩷 Subscribe to our YouTube channel

    💜 Follow us on Instagram

    💙Follow us on TikTok

    📥 Have a topic you want to hear? Email Professor T at rhea@atomicanesthesia.com

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    11 mins
  • PAIN PATHWAYS [WEBINAR REPLAY] | EP41
    Jun 30 2025

    In this live webinar, we discuss pain pathways in extreme detail, which is a foundational topic for anyone in anesthesia or in the ICU. We explore the four stages of pain—transduction, transmission, modulation, and perception—breaking down complex neurophysiology into manageable segments. We also look at how acute pain transitions into chronic pain, covering nociceptive, neuropathic, and nociplastic pain, and explaining the key roles of nociceptors, ion channels, and neurotransmitters. Whether you're new to this topic or reviewing for boards, this session offers clear explanations of difficult material, including referred pain and the gate control theory. Stick around until the end to hear about groundbreaking therapies like NAV1.8 blockers and the future of non-opioid pain management that could transform how we treat acute and chronic pain.

    🎉 FREE RESOURCES:

    [FREE DOWNLOAD] FOR THE SRNA: GRAB YOUR FREE SEE/NCE STUDY PLAN HERE

    [FREE DOWNLOAD] FOR THE RN: GRAB YOUR FREE ICU DRUG CHART HERE

    Check out our other free resources at AtomicAnesthesia.com

    ⚛️ TOOLS YOU MIGHT LIKE:

    🫀Cardiac Pharmacology Course

    💉Our popular Triple Badge Buddy & other swag here

    ⚛️ CONNECT:

    🩷 Subscribe to our YouTube channel

    💜 Follow us on Instagram

    💙Follow us on TikTok

    📥 Have a topic you want to hear? Email Professor T at rhea@atomicanesthesia.com

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    1 hr and 13 mins
  • ANESTHESIA TECHNICIANS AND EFFECTIVE COLLABORATION WITH KERRIE KLEIN | EP40
    Jun 23 2025

    In this episode, with CRNA Kerrie Klein, we discuss the essential but often misunderstood role of certified anesthesia technicians and technologists. We break down the differences between uncertified techs, certified technicians, and certified technologists—and why this matters for anesthesia providers. We explore their training, scope of practice, and how these professionals can be an untapped asset in improving efficiency and patient safety in the OR. We also talk culture, advocacy, and practical ways CRNAs can elevate the role of these team members. Listen until the end to learn a surprising skill that certified technologists are trained to perform—one that could change how you run your next high-acuity case.

    🎉 FREE RESOURCES:

    [FREE DOWNLOAD] FOR THE SRNA: GRAB YOUR FREE SEE/NCE STUDY PLAN HERE

    [FREE DOWNLOAD] FOR THE RN: GRAB YOUR FREE ICU DRUG CHART HERE

    Check out our other free resources at AtomicAnesthesia.com

    ⚛️ TOOLS YOU MIGHT LIKE:

    🫀Cardiac Pharmacology Course

    💉Our popular Triple Badge Buddy & other swag here

    ⚛️ CONNECT:

    🩷 Subscribe to our YouTube channel

    💜 Follow us on Instagram

    💙Follow us on TikTok

    📥 Have a topic you want to hear? Email Professor T at rhea@atomicanesthesia.com

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    41 mins
  • EI/EQ AND LEADERSHIP WITH THERESA REED | EP39
    Jun 16 2025

    In this episode, we discuss the crucial role emotional intelligence (EI) plays in the journey of becoming a CRNA. We explore what EI really means—understanding and managing your emotions and those of others—and why it’s essential in both the classroom and clinical settings. We unpack how skills like self-awareness, communication, and stress management directly impact your performance, especially during high-stakes situations. You’ll hear how EI can be developed through self-assessment, mentorship, and even simulation training. We also explore real-world strategies for handling difficult preceptors, building trust with OR staff, and maintaining your emotional resilience over the long haul. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed in clinicals or doubted your confidence under pressure, this episode is for you. Stick around to the end to learn a surprising communication trick that can defuse tension and help you earn trust—even in the most high-stress OR moments.

    To contact Dr. Theresa Reed, email her at treed@barry.edu

    🎉 FREE RESOURCES:

    [FREE DOWNLOAD] FOR THE SRNA: GRAB YOUR FREE SEE/NCE STUDY PLAN HERE

    [FREE DOWNLOAD] FOR THE RN: GRAB YOUR FREE ICU DRUG CHART HERE

    Check out our other free resources at AtomicAnesthesia.com

    ⚛️ TOOLS YOU MIGHT LIKE:

    🫀Cardiac Pharmacology Course

    💉Our popular Triple Badge Buddy & other swag here

    ⚛️ CONNECT:

    🩷 Subscribe to our YouTube channel

    💜 Follow us on Instagram

    💙Follow us on TikTok

    📥 Have a topic you want to hear? Email Professor T at rhea@atomicanesthesia.com

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    53 mins
  • PEDIATRIC EMERGENCIES WITH DR. MOTYKIEWICZ | EP38
    May 29 2025

    In this episode, Pediatric CRNA Dr. Becky Motykiewicz dives into the most critical pediatric anesthesia complications you need to know—whether you're just starting out or already deep into practice. We break down airway issues like laryngospasm and bronchospasm, and explain how to manage these high-stakes situations effectively. We also touch on common postoperative concerns like stridor and emergence delirium, and why pediatric patients desaturate and destabilize faster than adults. You'll learn how to prevent and treat hypotension, bradycardia, and even hypoglycemia. Most importantly, we emphasize the life-saving importance of precise drug dosing and early recognition of emergencies. Stay tuned to the end for a tool that can help you avoid the most common medication errors in pediatric cases.

    🎉 FREE RESOURCES:

    [FREE DOWNLOAD] FOR THE SRNA: GRAB YOUR FREE SEE/NCE STUDY PLAN HERE

    [FREE DOWNLOAD] FOR THE RN: GRAB YOUR FREE ICU DRUG CHART HERE

    Check out our other free resources at AtomicAnesthesia.com

    ⚛️ TOOLS YOU MIGHT LIKE:

    🫀Cardiac Pharmacology Course

    💉Our popular Triple Badge Buddy & other swag here

    ⚛️ CONNECT:

    🩷 Subscribe to our YouTube channel

    💜 Follow us on Instagram

    💙Follow us on TikTok

    📥 Have a topic you want to hear? Email Professor T at rhea@atomicanesthesia.com

    Show More Show Less
    14 mins