This study tested the generality of industrial-based research on Maslow's need theory in a hospital setting. Four hypotheses relating need satisfaction to organizational position and job performance were tested among 39 professional and 41 paraprofessional employees of a medium-sized hospital. Professional nurses reported significantly higher satisfaction with their job security, prestige within the organization, and job autonomy than did paraprofessional employees. Job performance was significantly correlated with the fulfillment of self-actualization needs for professional employees. The implications of these findings for administrative policy ar discussed.