‘Twas the month of major holidays when all through the house Lots of creatures were stirring, tapping tablets or clicking a mouse. Nurses brought medication, soothing words, and expert care, In hopes that patients’ problems could all be repaired. The patients were nestled all snug in their beds, While visions of nurse heroes danced in their heads. And while family members held vigil, and volunteers smiled wide Charge nurses settled their brains for another shift’s wild ride. When over the smartphone there arose such a clatter, Calling nurses to the hallway to see what was the matter. Away to the rescue one flew like a flash, Another rapid response team avoiding a crash. The symbol of Magnet* adorning the wall, Gave the guarantee of excellence to patients one and all. When, what to my wondering eyes should appear, But a fresh new night shift with eight mighty nurse peers. With a bold and bright leader so lively and quick, I knew in a moment they could tend to the sick. More rapid than eagles, they readied their stance With assessments and best practices, leaving nothing to chance. “Nurse Susan! Nurse Jonathan! Nurses Tammy and Megan! On, Yumi! On, José! On, Rhonda and Gordon! To the urgent CT scan and blinking lights in the hall! Now dash away! Dash away! Dash away all!” As holidays bring endless trays of sweet treats, When they threaten the waistline, ditch the carbs for some meat. And out comes the fruit, a little chocolate and such, And ethnic traditions with a personal touch. And then, in a twinkling, I heard on the pad The transport team bringing someone hurt quite bad. As I drew in my head, and was turning around, Down the driveway they came with a bound. They were dressed in blue jumpsuits from their heads to their feet And their equipment was gleaming as they skipped not a beat. Special equipment and IV bags swung to and fro, As they escorted the patient with no time to doze. Their eyes, how they twinkled! Their methods, how clever! Their expertise unrivaled, their determination—forever! Their commitment to teamwork shone steady and bright As they welcomed their colleagues who waited on site. The rest of the house was completely unaware Of the miracles unfolding where nurses gave care. Wherever they worked, the nurses they hurried, To stop pain and bleeding, and comfort all who were worried. They were young, they were old. Of all colors and sizes, Dedicated to healing, with quite vigilant eyes! They knew when to listen, or ask the right question, Giving reassurance and answers in any situation. They spoke the right words, always serious about their work, And stabled the vital signs, never going berserk. And breathing a collective sigh of success, And giving a nod, they celebrated easing another family’s duress. As the shift reached an end, they completed their charting, And drank some more java before departing. But I heard them exclaim, ‘ere they drove out of sight, “Happy holidays to all, and to all a good-night!” *Magnet Recognition Program^®