Vikki Metheny, BSN, MSN, ANP, is a Chapel Hill native and has been a nurse practitioner with the UNC Liver Center for over 11 years. Each visit she works to ensure the patient has an understanding of their disease. Outside of work, Vikki is a proud mom of two sons, frequents concerts, and loves Neapolitan style pizza!
What is your role in the Department and what patients do you serve?
I am an outpatient nurse practitioner for the Liver Center. I see patients with all types of liver disease, including pre and post liver transplant patients.
Where are you from?
I grew up right here in Chapel Hill, and now live near Hillsborough on what was my grandparent’s farm.
Did you always envision yourself as an APP?
Once I started nursing school at age 30, I quickly knew I wanted to be a NP.
What is the most rewarding part of your work?
Ensuring patients and families have a thorough understanding of their disease state.
How has your role evolved over time since you’ve been here?
After 11 years in the Liver Center, I feel like a resource for co-workers and APPs through-out the state.
What is one thing that you wish people knew about your job?
The sad parts never get easier.
Personally or professionally, what are you most proud of?
100%; raising 2 self-sufficient, thoughtful boys.
If you didn’t have a career in medicine, what would you be doing?
Something in the design field. I love modern architecture and design.
What hobbies do you enjoy outside of work?
Live music, I always have a concert or music festival on my calendar.
If you had to eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Neapolitan style pizza
What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
“Listen to your patients, they will tell you what is wrong with them”, from a retired surgeon who was one of my very first patients. It’s true.
What do you hope to accomplish in the next year?
As a new “empty nester” focus on the next phase of life, whatever that is?
What’s the last song you listened to?
“Althea” by the Grateful Dead.