Table 1.

Opening question and topics of the questioning phase of the interview guidelines

Opening question*	Topics of the questioning phase
“As you already know, our study covers the prescription of sedatives and hypnotics for elderly patients. Scientific and lay journals have published articles that are critical of this subject in recent years. However, very little is known about this subject, particularly from the perspective of the hospital doctors/general practitioners. Please try to remember the last few cases in which you prescribed sedatives or hypnotics and tell me what prompted you to do this.”	Pharmaceutical guidelines
	Alternative treatment options
	Doctor-patient relationship
	Experience of particular or critical situations
	Need for improvement
	Interface hospital/general practice

*Same opening question for GPs and hospital doctors