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Abstract :
Introduction: Severe burn patients require specific and complex care, yet scientific literature on the
subject remains limited compared to other chronic diseases. Patient Therapeutic Education (PTE),
particularly through the “Ma peau brûlée” program at Ster clinic, aims to strengthen these patients'
autonomy and adaptation to functional and psychosocial sequels. Objective: This study assesses the
effectiveness of this approach by examining the evolution of coping strategies, well-being, mood, and
affectivity in severe burn patients. Method: Following the SCRIBE protocol (The Single-Case Reporting
Guideline In Behavioural Interventions, (Tate et al., 2016), a reversal design (ABABA) was applied to a
retired patient hospitalized for burns sustained in a domestic accident. The study lasted 14 weeks, with
phases comprising 5 to 7 assessments spaced 3 to 4 days apart. In phase B (intervention), the patient
participated in PTE workshops. The mixed-method approach combined quantitative analysis based on
DASS-21, WCC, Ryff scale, and B-PANAS, and statistical evaluation via the Reliable Change Index
(RCI). The qualitative analysis relied on a interview, processed using Reflexive Thematic Analysis (RTA)
(Braun & Clarke, 2019) and lexicometric analysis with IRaMuTeQ (Reinert, 1983), reinforcing result
interpretation. Results: The “Ma peau brûlée” PTE program led to improved mood, with a significant
decrease in anxiety, depression, and stress (DASS-21). Negative affectivity (B-PANAS) and emotion-
focused coping (WCC) also decreased, indicating better emotional regulation. Additionally, qualitative
analysis highlighted the key role of social support and PTE workshops, initially met with skepticism but
ultimately deemed essential: “At first, I thought it would just be more talking, but no, it was really useful.”
“It puts things into perspective. We’re all the same, we’re all burn patients.” Lexicometric analysis with
IRaMuTeQ identified five major thematic categories, illustrating aspects of the patient's experience:
Medical care (23.3%), emphasizing treatment and follow-up. Communication and need for answers
(22%), demonstrating dialogue and support impact. Timing and organization of care (13.9%), revealing
program disruption effects. Some fluctuations in well-being were observed, notably decreased
environmental mastery and increased positive relationships (Ryff-18). However, mood and well-being
showed progressive adaptation, with well-being centered on physical recovery and autonomy: "I would
say health, pleasure, freedom… And now, regaining my mobility." Follow-up suggests the patient
actively continued care despite constraints: "Even though it's a hassle, I keep up with physiotherapy,
hydration, and wearing compression garments." Discussion: This study highlights the positive impact of
PTE on burn patients’ adaptation, facilitating emotional regulation despite well-being fluctuations.
Methodological triangulation contextualized the results and analyzed adjustment processes via
lexicometric and thematic analysis, emphasizing social support and workshops’ key role. However, the
single-case design limits generalizability, requiring larger-sample studies. Comparing PTE to group
discussions, motivational interviewing, or cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) could refine care strategies
and skill integration within this population.
Keywords: Severe burn / PTE / Effectiveness / Single-case design / Adaptive strategies.