Background: During the last decades, the interest of health professionals increases continuously towards the assessment and the fulfillment of the patients’ needs. The aim of the present study was review the literature about the needs of hospitalized patients. Methods and material: The method of this study included bibliography research from both the review and the research literature which carried out internationally mainly over the last five years and referred to the needs of the hospitalized patients. Results: According to the literature, there are many definitions proposed for the “need” due to its’ inherent complexity. The "patients’ need" is a dynamic concept that changes over time and the disease progression. A commonly held view is that the "patients’ need" varies accordingly to the spirituality and cultural traditions of the patients. The majority of studies showed that the main needs of hospitalized patients are: confidence, communication, information, education, self-care, and support. Undermining or not assessing needs of hospitalized patients exerts a negative influence on the outcome of the disease and imposes a tremendous financial burden on the National Health System in each country. Recent research has confirmed patients' desire and expectations to participate in their care. Conclusions: Understanding the importance of assessing needs of hospitalized patients should prompt health professionals to provide efficient care for patients. The gap between patients' health needs and the services offered merit further research.