GNM vs. ANM: Nursing Exam Guide 2024

GNM and ANM Exams in 2024: A Guide for Nursing Aspirants

In the year 2024, nursing aspirants in India have two significant entrance exams they can choose from to pursue their careers in the nursing field: General Nursing and Midwifery (GNM) and Auxiliary Nurse Midwife (ANM). These exams serve as gateways to enter the nursing profession and the world of healthcare.

General Nursing and Midwifery (GNM)

GNM is a three-year diploma course designed to train nurses and midwives in providing primary healthcare services and delivering baby care. The course is aimed at preparing nurses to work in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings.

Key points about GNM:

• Curriculum: The GNM syllabus covers subjects such as nursing fundamentals, community health, medical-surgical nursing, maternal and child health, psychiatric nursing, and more.
• Eligibility: The minimum eligibility for GNM is passing 12th grade with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (PCB) as core subjects. There is no age limit for GNM applicants.
• Exams: The GNM entrance exams are conducted by various state nursing councils and universities in India, with question papers largely based on the NCERT syllabus.

Auxiliary Nurse Midwife (ANM)

ANM is a two-year diploma course, which is shorter than GNM, designed to train nurses and midwives to provide basic healthcare services in rural areas. ANM students can work under the supervision of medical officers in government health facilities, schools, and other rural healthcare setups.

Key points about ANM:

• Curriculum: The ANM syllabus covers subjects such as nursing fundamentals, community health, medical-surgical nursing, basic midwifery, public health, and more.
• Eligibility: The minimum eligibility for ANM is passing 10th grade, with an age limit of 35 years.
• Exams: The ANM entrance exams are conducted by various state nursing councils and universities in India, with question papers largely based on the NCERT syllabus.

Differences between GNM and ANM

The primary differences between GNM and ANM are the duration of the course and the scope of their roles:

• Duration: GNM is a three-year course, whereas ANM is a two-year course.
• Scope: GNM students have more extensive roles compared to ANM students. GNM students can work in various healthcare settings, while ANM students primarily work in rural healthcare setups.

Choosing between GNM and ANM

When choosing between GNM and ANM, consider your career goals, interest in the field, and the healthcare setting you wish to work in. If you are interested in an extensive nursing career with more opportunities and are willing to invest more time and effort, GNM is the better choice. On the other hand, if you are looking for a shorter diploma course and are interested in working in rural healthcare setups, ANM is the better choice.

Preparing for GNM and ANM Exams

• Understand the syllabus: Familiarize yourself with the syllabus and the subjects covered in the GNM and ANM courses.
• Study NCERT textbooks: The NCERT textbooks provide an excellent foundation for GNM and ANM entrance exams.
• Practice samples papers: Use samples papers, previous year question papers, and mock tests to improve your understanding of the pattern and difficulty level of the entrance exams.
• Focus on basics: Ensure you have a strong foundation in the basic sciences, as they make up a significant portion of the GNM and ANM entrance exams.

Remember that the GNM and ANM exams are your first stepping stones towards a fulfilling career in nursing. With the right preparation and dedication, you can achieve your goals and contribute to the healthcare sector.