In this study we used Horta's theoretical framework to orientate the nursing practice. After the initial assessment to identify the affected needs we proceeded the identification of nursing diagnosis using NANDA's (North American Nursing Diagnosis Association) proposed taxonomy. This adaptation of Horta's model permitted nursing care planning (goals and objectives). After this step the problem-oriented methodology was used as an strategy for nursing care. This model was used with a hospitalized patient, identifying: alteration of affected needs, five nursing diagnosis to which four goals were delineated and followed by the five steps of the problem oriented methodology (evaluation).