Objective To investigate the effects of self-efficacy-oriented nursing intervention on postoperative quality of life of lung tumor patients. Methods Ninety patients with lung tumors undergoing chest surgery in our hospital from March 2010 to March 2012 , involved in the study. The nursing data were retrospectively analyzed for investigation of the nursing strategies. The patients were randomized into two group with random digits table in equal number: The control group received routine nursing and the intervention group with self-efficacy-oriented nursing intervention beside routine nursing care. 3 months after nursing intervention , the two groups were compared by Self-rating Depression Scale (SDS) and Self-rating Anxiety Scale (SAS) in terms of quality of life and psychological state. Results The scores of the intervention group by SDS and SAS were both significantly higher than those of the control group (P < 0.05). The scores of the intervention group on self efficacy and quality of life were significantly higher than those of the control (P < 0.05). Conclusion The self-efficacy-oriented nursing intervention applied in the postoperative nursing care to lung cancer patients can significantly improve the postoperative symptoms and psychological status. It can also improve their self efficacy and then enhance their quality of life.