This articles concerns a study which combines quantitative and qualitative methods. Based on a nursing team method, a process to unify knowledge with nursing terms was initiated. A transversal study identifying the care needs of patients checked into the hospital from January 2000 to May 2000 diagnosed with pancreatitis has been carried out. Using M. Gordon's functional patterns, an evaluation of nurses has taken place. It is necessary to use a nurse's attention process having a scientific focus directed at solving problems which offers a conceptual frame for nurses' organization, planning and follow through.