The Impact of Standardized Training Resident on Pain Management in Patients with Advanced Lung Cancer

This study aimed to investigate the effects of Standardized Training Resident on pharmacological interventions for pain management in patients with advanced lung cancer. A total of 84 patients with advanced lung cancer and associated pain were enrolled in the study from December 2019 to August 2023 and were divided into two groups based on their attending physician: a group managed by physician-ST Training Physicians (joint group) (n = 42) and physician-only group (usual group) (n = 42). The Brief Pain Inventory (BPI), oral morphine equivalent, and length of hospital stay. Furthermore, the Pain Management Index (PMI) was calculated. Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) was assessed at the 4-week follow-up using the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire Core 30 (EORTC QLQ-C30). At week 4, compared to the usual group, the four BPI pain intensity categories were significantly lower in the joint group [worst pain: 4 (3–5) vs 8 (7–9); least pain: 1 (0–2) vs 3 (1–4); average pain: 2 (1–2) vs 5 (4–6); pain right now: 1.2 (0.7–1.9) vs 4 (3–5)] (all P > 0.05). The hospital stay duration was significantly reduced; for the seven pain interference categories, there were no significant improvements in the joint group. Significantly more patients achieved adequate pain control in the joint group than the usual group (p = .002). A reduction in OMEDD scores was observed for both cohorts, and the joint group’s reduction was statistically more significant (p = 0.016). There were no significant differences in HRQoL between the two groups. Standardized Training for Radiation Oncology Physicians may lead to improved pharmacological interventions and enhanced pain relief. Recognizing the importance of these trainees in the healthcare team is crucial for achieving optimal pain management outcomes.