Table 1

Topic guide

Interview topicsSample questions
Rapport-building
  • Can you tell me a bit about your role in the emergency department? How would you describe your work?

  • What was your motivation for taking part in the meditation programme?

  • What was your experience of meditation during the programme?

Impact of meditation programme on self
  • What has work been like for you since taking part in the programme?

  • If you were to compare yourself before and after taking part in the programme, what observations would you make, if any?

  • Can you tell me about any changes you may have noticed in how you perceive yourself?

Impact of meditation programme on others
  • Can you tell me about any changes in how you perceive others? Colleagues/patients/your interactions with them? How do you think this programme has been perceived by staff in the emergency department?

  • If you were to compare your colleagues before and after taking part, what observations would you make, if any?

  • If you were to compare the working environment in the emergency department before and after the programme, what observations would you make, if any?

Current practice and looking forward
  • Can you tell me about your meditation practice since the programme has ended?

  • Can you tell me about some of your external/internal challenges to practising meditation?

  • What would help you to maintain a consistent meditation practice?