Atomic Anesthesia

In this episode of the Trauma and Burn Anesthesia Series , we take a deep dive into one of the most critical moments in trauma care: the induction and maintenance of anesthesia in hemodynamically unstable patients. We break down the principles behind choosing the right agents, why dose reductions and careful titration are essential, and how rapid sequence induction sets the standard in trauma. You...

In part 4 of the Trauma and Burn Anesthesia series, we turn to the critical steps of securing the airway, establishing reliable vascular access, and safely transitioning the patient from the trauma bay to the operating room. This episode highlights the challenges of airway management in unstable and severely injured patients, including techniques for rapid sequence induction, surgical airways, and...

In part 3 of the Trauma and Burn Anesthesia series, we focus on blood product administration and fluid resuscitation, exploring how transfusions are tailored to support oxygen delivery, coagulation, and hemodynamic stability in critically injured patients. The episode examines the indications and composition of packed red blood cells, platelets, plasma, and cryoprecipitate, as well as the role of...

In part 2 of the Trauma and Burn Anesthesia series, we discuss hemorrhage management in trauma, covering the causes and treatment of trauma-induced coagulopathies and the significance of essential lab values such as thromboelastography (TEG), blood gases and PT/INR/PTT. The discussion integrates key concepts from trauma anesthesia, including the lethal triad and diamond of death, underscoring how...

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 a...

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...

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...

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...

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 nociplast...

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 as...

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 d...

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 emerg...

In this episode, Professor T discusses something at the top of everyone's minds when going to CRNA school - how am I going to pay for this?! We break down the smart, intentional decisions that made this possible—from qualifying for Public Service Loan Forgiveness and maximizing a 401(k), to avoiding lifestyle inflation and strategically investing in a surgery center. We also touch on practical tip...

This episode is a replay of a live webinar by cardiac CRNA, Alex Gorman, who gives an excellent presentation on Cardiac Anesthesia. He explores the essentials for managing complex heart cases in the OR. We walk through the entire process—from pre-op evaluations and cath report interpretation to hemodynamic management and weaning off bypass. Whether you're a CRNA, resident, or ICU nurse, you'll gai...

In this episode, we dive into the game-changing drug sugammadex—a powerful agent that rapidly reverses neuromuscular blockade caused by rocuronium and vecuronium. We explore its unique mechanism of action, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics, along with how it differs from traditional reversal agents like neostigmine. You'll gain clarity on proper dosing strategies across populations, including...

In this episode featuring Jeremy Heiner (Editor of the Nurse Anesthesia textbook), we dive into rapid-fire differential diagnosis and crisis management, tackling some of the most intense and high-stakes scenarios nurse anesthesia providers can face. From airway fires and venous air embolisms to anaphylaxis, malignant hyperthermia, and local anesthetic systemic toxicity, we break down ten real-time...

In this episode, we dive deep into the basics of anesthesia pharmacology—perfect for ICU nurses starting CRNA school or senior residents needing a solid refresher. We break down foundational topics like pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacogenomics, and explain why understanding physiology is key to mastering pharmacology. You’ll learn about drug targets like GABA and NMDA receptors, an...

In this episode, Rhea Temmermand and Jeremy Heiner (editor of the Nagelhout Nurse Anesthesia textbook) dive deep into the under-discussed but vital topic of cognitive aids and crisis checklists in anesthesia . You'll learn how tools like the Stanford Emergency Manual and the Nurse Anesthesia Crisis Checklists can sharpen clinical decision-making during high-stress scenarios like anaphylaxis or hyp...

In this episode of "Resident's Corner," we discuss the universal challenge of falling behind in didactics, particularly in demanding programs like CRNA school. Our anonymous resident shares her personal insights on recognizing the problem, managing overwhelm, and strategies for getting back on track. From creating concise calendars and prioritizing study time to adopting a mindset that treats quiz...

PART 2/2: In this must-listen episode, Professor Temmermand shares strategies for thriving during clinical rotations. Transitioning from didactics to clinicals can be challenging, so in this live webinar replay, we outline what to expect when beginning this new phase of your training, provide tips for success, and explore how to navigate this challenging but exciting phase of your journey. 💜 LIVE...

PART 1/2: In this must-listen episode, Professor Temmermand shares strategies for thriving during clinical rotations. Transitioning from didactics to clinicals can be challenging, so in this live webinar replay, we outline what to expect when beginning this new phase of your training, provide tips for success, and explore how to navigate this challenging but exciting phase of your journey. 💜 LIVE...

This episode details a comprehensive study plan designed to help nurse anesthesia residents prepare for the Self-Evaluation Examination (SEE) and the National Certification Examination (NCE) for CRNAs. We discuss a detailed 24-week schedule, study tips, healthy habits, and exam prep strategies. The plan outlines specific topics from the NCE outline to cover each week, along with recommended resour...

In this mini-episode, Dr. Becky Motykiewicz, a pediatric CRNA specializing in cardiac anesthesia, unpacks the fascinating anatomical and physiological differences between pediatric and adult patients that make pediatric anesthesia a unique specialty. From the neonate's HR-dependent cardiac output and immature baroreceptor reflex to the challenges of managing a smaller, more compliant airway, this...

This episode explores starting and managing an anesthesia group, featuring James and Kendra Stockman, founders of Grasshopper Anesthesia Services. We not only explain the "how to" of creating your own group, but also we examine the benefits of joining a CRNA-owned group for those not yet ready to start their own, drawing from the Stockmans' extensive experience in rural and outpatient settings. Ja...

In this episode, we dive into the essential topic of time management for CRNA students, featuring a live recording from a recent webinar. Navigating the rigorous demands of advanced doctoral-level education can be overwhelming, but effective time management is the key to balancing academic, clinical, and personal responsibilities. We explore common challenges like procrastination, distractions, an...