The purpose of this case report was to present the experience in caring for a pulmonary tuberculosis patient with severe complications. The patient needed to be treated by surgery but the rate of success was only 50%. The patient and his family felt uncertainty and anxious during the pre-operation stage, because they must deal with the decision of surgery. After surgery, the patient faced wound pain and weaning process. During the nursing period (from August 14 to August 20, 2001), the author applied the skill of empowerment to build up the trust with each other Moreover, we also provided the nursing instruction for the patient and his family to increase their motivation and self-control. Finally, the ability of the patients self care was promoted. The nursing experience from this case report can help patient decreasing the length of hospitalization and improving our nursing quality.