Cardiac catheterization can be performed on an inpatient or outpatient basis. If you are an inpatient, you will stay in the hospital overnight and usually go home the next day. Outpatients go home the day of the procedure. You will be given specific instructions as to where and when to arrive at the medical facility, how to prepare for your procedure, and what to expect the day of and the days following your cardiac catheterization.

 

You will be asked not to eat or drink anything for at least eight hours before your procedure. And, because you will not be able to drive after your cardiac catheterization, be sure to arrange for someone to drive you home.