Development and evaluation of an interactive case-based training tool for timely on-farm euthanasia decision-making in swine

Timely and humane euthanasia is essential to safeguard animal welfare on pig farms, yet studies in Brazil and other major pig-producing countries reveal persistent uncertainty and inconsistency in on-farm decision-making. This study aimed to develop and evaluate an interactive, case-based training tool to assess its impact on knowledge, confidence, and decision-making related to on-farm swine euthanasia among veterinary and animal science students. Outcomes included pre- and post-training self-assessed knowledge and confidence, accuracy of decisions in interactive case-based scenarios, and participant feedback regarding usability, realism, and perceived value of the tool. A total of 47 students participated in the study. They completed pre-and post-training Likert-scale surveys assessing self-perceived competencies related to swine euthanasia, followed by five clinical case scenarios requiring real-world decision. Participants’ demographics, education, and experience were collected and their feedback on the training tool was surveyed. Statistical analysis included Wilcoxon signed-rank tests for pre-post comparisons and multivariable logistic regression models to explore associations between participants’ characteristics and improvements in individual survey items. All eight self-assessed competencies showed statistically significant improvement after training (p < 0.05). Students demonstrated an average of 89.1% correct responses in interactive case-based decisions. Multivariable logistic models identified specific characteristics associated with greater improvement in confidence and knowledge, including gender, ethnicity, and prior swine experience. Participant feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with over 90% agreeing the tool was realistic, relatable, and worthwhile. These findings show the tool effectively strengthens euthanasia-related knowledge and confidence, supporting its adoption in veterinary and animal-science education to promote timely, ethical decision-making in Brazilian swine systems.