A meta-analysis examined risk factors for postoperative delirium (POD) in recovery room patients. 20 studies with a total number of 6877 patients were analyzed. The identified risk factors include older age, male gender, low BMI, longer operation time and anesthesia. The presence of hypertension, diabetes mellitus, smoking, alcohol consumption, and a history of cerebral infarction also increased the risk of POD. Increased intraoperative blood loss and worse physical status according to the ASA classification were associated with a higher risk. Inadequate use of dexmedetomidine and reduced postoperative albumin levels also contributed to a higher incidence of POD.