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GDA Nursing Course, Patient Care Training in India, Check Course Details

GDA Nursing Course prepares individuals for vital patient care roles. It teaches essential healthcare support skills. The course covers hygiene, basic medical aid, and effective patient communication. Graduates find roles assisting nurses in various healthcare settings. This program aims to provide foundational knowledge for a career in patient support.

authorImagePriyanka Agarwal22 Dec, 2025
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GDA Nursing Course

 

GDA Nursing Course prepares candidates for basic patient care as General Duty Assistants. GDA training encompasses basic health and hygienic care of patients, basic medical procedures, first aid, and communication with patients. GDA training is conducted through theory as well as hands-on training at hospitals, clinics, and home healthcare facilities. This prepares the candidates to work as assistants to nurses in patient care and well-being.

Qualified applicants need a 10th standard education and an age group of 17-35 years. After completing a course period of 4-6 months, they can be employed in a hospital, clinic, home healthcare, and rehabilitation centres with a salary between ₹12,000-18,000 a month.

What is GDA Nursing Course?

The GDA Nursing Course is a basic training course designed for General Duty Assistants. General Duty Assistants are important support staff in patient care services. Individuals are trained in this course to provide the necessary skills to be used in hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes. There is a focus on patient comfort, health, and hygiene in this course.

GDA Nursing Course Eligibility Criteria

The GDA Nursing Course requires eligibility based on specific educational requirements. The requirements may include the completion of 10th grade from a recognized board. There could also be age requirements, such as 17 to 35 years. There could be specific entry tests or interviews at the desired institution. Physical fitness could also be required, given the challenging nature of the profession.

GDA Nursing Course Duration and Structure

The GDA (General Duty Assistant) Nursing Course is a short-term skill-based course aimed at training aspirants for basic patient handling tasks. This course is a blend of theoretical knowledge and hands-on training to make trainees employment-ready.

GDA Nursing Course Duration and Structure

Aspect

Details

Course Duration

4 to 6 months (may extend up to 1 year, including internship)

Course Type

Certificate / Short-term vocational course

Training Structure

Theory + Practical / On-the-job training

Theory Component

Basic nursing care, anatomy, hygiene, first aid, and infection control

Practical Training

Hospital, clinic, or home-care-based hands-on training

Objective

Develop essential patient care and support skills

Admission Process for GDA Nursing Course

Enrolling in a GDA Nursing Course is a straightforward process that ensures candidates meet eligibility and receive proper training. Follow these steps to successfully secure admission:

  • Research and Select an Institute: Choose a government-recognized or NSDC-approved training institute.

  • Verify Eligibility: Ensure you meet the required age and educational qualifications.

  • Submit Application Form: Apply online or offline according to the institute’s instructions.

  • Pay Course Fees: Complete the fee payment; some institutes offer installment options.

  • Attend Training Sessions: Participate in both theoretical and practical classes.

  • Complete Internship & Examination: Gain hands-on experience and clear the final assessment.

  • Receive Certification: Obtain your GDA certification and begin your professional career.

GDA Nursing Course Fees in India (Expected)

The General Duty Assistant (GDA) Nursing Course is an inexpensive healthcare skill course offered in India. The tuition fees may vary depending on the institutions and the duration or extent of hands-on training provided. Varyingly, tuition fees for a GDA course may range between ₹5,000 to ₹30,000, depending onthe  basic certificate course

GDA Nursing Course Fees in India (Expected)

Fee Component

Typical Range (India)

Basic GDA Course Fee

₹5,000 – ₹15,000

Standard GDA Program

₹15,000 – ₹30,000

Advanced / Extended Training

₹25,000 – ₹35,000+

Additional Certification / Materials

Varies by institute

GDA Nursing Course Syllabus and Subjects

The GDA Nursing Course Syllabus covers healthcare skills. It has topics such as anatomy and physiology. Then there are lessons on patient hygiene and grooming. First aid and emergency care are well-integrated aspects. They are followed by learning patient vital sign monitoring and recording. Communication skills for dealing with patients and other staff members are taught. Handling medical equipment properly is another important aspect.

Role of a General Duty Assistant (GDA)

A General Duty Assistant provides direct patient support. 

  • GDAs assist nurses with daily patient needs. 

  • They help patients with mobility and personal care. 

  • Maintaining cleanliness and order in patient rooms is crucial. 

GDAs also monitor patient conditions and report changes to nurses. They contribute significantly to patient comfort and well-being.

Skills Learned in GDA Nursing Course

The GDA Nursing Course equips students with essential practical and professional skills for patient care.

  • Patient handling techniques

  • Basic Life Support (BLS) and first aid

  • Infection control practices

  • Verbal and non-verbal communication skills

  • Patient records management

  • Time management

  • Empathy and compassionate care

Career Options After GDA Nursing Course

There are a variety of career opportunities that one may consider once a GDA Nursing course is completed.

  • They can be employed as General Duty Assistants in hospitals.

  • They work in private clinics and nursing homes.

  • Also, in-home support services for patients in home healthcare organizations hire GDAs.

Rehabilitation centres, as well as palliative care centres, present opportunities. The need for professional GDAs is consistent in the healthcare industry..

Patient Care Assistance

The GDAs are trained to help their patients in their normal activities. These include bathing, dressing, and feeding. The GDAs also assist their patients in transferring in a safe way. Patient comfort is one of the main ways to achieve this goal.

Hygiene and Safety Protocols

The training focuses on the importance of following hygiene practices. GDAs are trained on how to handle infections. They clean equipment and ensure that patients' environments are clean. Patient safety measures are the key consideration. These include preventing patients from falling and taking medications (under close supervision). The systems work to safeguard patients and staff.

Basic Medical Procedures

Medical procedures GDAs are trained in basic medical procedures. This includes the measurement of vital signs such as temperature, pulse, and blood pressure. The procedure for assisting patients with wounds is taught by a nurse. The procedure for specimen collection is taught as well. These mechanisms are very important to the nursing staff.

Salary After GDA Nursing Course

After completing the General Duty Assistant (GDA) Nursing Course, candidates can enter the healthcare workforce in supporting roles with immediate earning opportunities. With additional experience and further training, pay scales can improve, and candidates may move into roles with higher responsibilities and better compensation in hospitals, clinics, home care services, and healthcare facilities.

Salary After GDA Nursing Course

Job Role

Average Monthly Salary (India)

GDA / Patient Care Assistant

₹12,000 – ₹18,000

Home Care Assistant

₹14,000 – ₹22,000

Hospital Ward Assistant

₹15,000 – ₹25,000

Experienced GDA / Senior Support Staff

₹20,000 – ₹30,000+

Difference Between GDA, ANM, and GNM Courses

The GDA (General Duty Assistant), ANM (Auxiliary Nurse Midwife), and GNM (General Nursing and Midwifery) courses are healthcare training programs in India, but they differ in duration, scope, and career prospects.

Difference Between GDA, ANM, and GNM Courses

Course

Duration

Focus Area

Eligibility

Career Opportunities

GDA (General Duty Assistant)

4–6 months

Basic patient care, hygiene, first aid, hospital support

10th/12th pass (varies by institute)

Patient care assistant, hospital aide, home care assistant

ANM (Auxiliary Nurse Midwife)

1–2 years

Maternal and child healthcare, community nursing, immunization

10th/12th pass with science subjects

Community health worker, midwife, primary healthcare nurse

GNM (General Nursing and Midwifery)

3 years

Comprehensive nursing care including clinical and hospital management

10+2 with science (PCB)

Staff nurse, ward in-charge, hospital supervisor, clinical nurse

Explore the Nursing Courses to access essential resources for Nursing exam preparation, including detailed insights and strategies. Dive into the Nursing for structured courses and focused study plans designed to help aspirants excel in their exams.

 

GDA Nursing Course FAQs

What does GDA stand for?

GDA stands for General Duty Assistant, a healthcare support role.

What is the main role of a GDA?

The main role of a GDA is to assist nurses with patient care and ensure patient comfort.

What skills are essential for a GDA?

Essential skills for a GDA include patient handling, first aid, hygiene maintenance, and effective communication.

Can a GDA work in hospitals?

Yes, GDAs commonly work in hospitals, private clinics, and nursing homes.
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