Common monitoring practice and an evidence-based recovery threshold are different claims.
The systematic review examined guidelines and expert statements from 2010–2020. Midazolam–opioid sedation was commonly discussed, but evidence for capnometry and recovery duration was limited. Two documents discussed two hours of recovery without establishing a firm evidence-supported recommendation.
This was a review of historical guidance, not new patient outcome research or a current standards audit. Patients with significant lung disease were poorly represented. Oxygen saturation can remain reassuring during supplemental oxygen despite impaired ventilation.
For a recovery review, examine ventilation, alertness, underlying lung disease and discharge criteria instead of relying only on elapsed time. Do not cite a discussed two-hour period as a universally validated safety boundary. The review identifies an evidence gap rather than proving that a shorter or longer stay caused an outcome.
Source: Publication PMC8193886. Applications to expert review are interpretive analysis.
Related reading: Joint Tapering Guideline Separates Physical Dependence From Benzodiazepine Use Disorder.