Objective To analyze the attributes of nursing service needs among the institutionalized elderly, and to provide reference for targeted interventions. Methods A total of 687 older people from 7 elder-care institutions in Tianjin were surveyed by using a self-designed nursing service needs questionnaire that was formulated based on Kano′s model of quality attributes. Results Among the 34 items of nursing service needs, 10 were attractive attributes (29.4%) and located in reserving zone Ⅳ, 10 were one-dimensional attributes (29.4%) and 7 of them located in predominance zone Ⅰ, 11 were must-be attributes (32.4%) and 7 of them located in improving zone Ⅱ, and 3 were indifferent attributes (8.8%) and located in secondary improving zone Ⅲ. In the dimension of physical health and medical needs, there were 2 attractive attributes, 4 one-dimensional attributes, 5 must-be attributes and 1 indifferent attribute. In the dimension of safety needs, there were 1 one-dimensional attribute, 4 must-be attributes and 2 indifferent attributes. In the dimension of respect needs, there were 1 attractive attribute, 3 one-dimensional attributes and 2 must-be attributes. In the dimension of love and belongingness needs, there were 4 attractive attributes and 2 one-dimensional attributes. All of 3 items in the dimension of self-realization needs were attractive attributes. Conclusion The institutionalized elderly reported physical health and medical care,safety and respect as must-be and one-dimensional attributes of nursing service, while love, belongingness and self-realization as attractive attribute. The elder care institutions should maintain and improve must-be and one-dimensional attributes of nursing service, develop and innovate attractive attribute, and objectively analyze and optimize indifferent attributes.