Why I Came, Why I Stayed: Methodist Hospital Critical Care nurse and care coordinator Alli Wood feels fulfilled in her role

In “Why I Came, Why I Stayed,” you’ll get to know people who are making a difference every day at Methodist and how they contribute to providing The Meaning of Care. To explore career opportunities at Methodist, visit bestcare.org/jobs.

Alli Wood, BSN, RN, CCRN
Critical Care Nurse and Care Coordinator for Critical Care, Head and Neck Surgery, and Pulmonology
Methodist Hospital

Tell us more about yourself and your role at Methodist.

Growing up in a small town south of Lincoln with my parents and three sisters, I wasn’t sure what I wanted to be, but I knew I wanted to help people. After high school, I wanted to experience a bigger city and moved to Omaha. I went to nursing school and obtained my bachelor's from Creighton University.

Shortly after college, I met my husband, Ryan, who is from Omaha. We enjoy spending time with both of our families and our six nieces and nephews. I also enjoy playing soccer, traveling and reading in my free time.

Methodist wasn’t my first nursing job after college, but it’s been my favorite. I’ve been lucky enough to work on the Progressive Care floor, on the Critical Care Unit and in the Care Management Department.

Why Methodist? What attracted you to the organization?

When I came to Methodist, I was looking for a hospital system that supports its nurses. Before making the change to the system, I spoke to a few nurses who were already employed here. A common thread among all of them was that they loved their patients and the community, and they felt very supported. During my time here, I’ve felt support from fellow coworkers, management and Methodist Hospital Foundation. Methodist really is a community that looks after one another.

What is it about Methodist that keeps you coming back?

One of the main reasons I’ve stayed at Methodist is that I feel very fulfilled in my role. I enjoy working in critical care and constantly learning. I also feel I’m surrounded by very caring people who are passionate about their jobs. I’ve made some lifelong friends at Methodist.

Do you have any favorite Methodist moments?

Working in critical care and with head and neck surgical patients, you see people going through some of the toughest times of their lives. My favorite moments have been when patients come back to say hello after their recovery. We don’t always get to see what happens to patients after they’re discharged from the hospital. That gives me hope and revitalizes my purpose for helping others. It also reminds me that there are better days ahead despite difficult ones.

Is there anything else that people should know about working at Methodist?

Methodist has some incredible employees who give their all to their jobs and care deeply. Every day you will find a smiling face in the halls or a helping hand. People here truly embody The Meaning of Care.