This case study reported the nursing care experience of a patient with anorexia nervosa (AN) using the structural family therapy (SFT). The nursing care took place between 24th January and 27th March 2014. Five dimensions of psychiatric nursing evaluation were conducted using clinical observation, psychiatric interview, and medical chart review. The main nursing diagnoses included altered nutrition (less than body requirements), ineffective family coping strategies, attempt to aggressive, disabled personal coping and altered thought processes. The author integrated the opinions of the medical team and formed a working alliance with the patient and her parents. Applying theory of SFT and reforming family structure enabled the patient to (1) modify inappropriate family interaction, (2) improve switching role functions among family members flexibly, and (3) set clear-cut boundaries in family relationships. The patient's body weight had increased from 25.5 kg to 30.6kg during the hospitalization period. In addition, smooth unhindered communication among family members became available after acquiring more mature coping skills. This report provided a better understanding of AN and might serve as a reference for nursing staff while taking care of patients with AN in the future.