If the point of insertion was your arm: You will be permitted to get out of bed within two hours; however, you must keep your arm straight using a stiff arm board.

The nursing staff will take your blood pressure and pulse frequently, and the site of insertion will be checked for bleeding. You also may expect the pulse and temperature of your feet to be taken, as well, to monitor the circulation. You will be encouraged to take in many fluids, first intravenously and then orally. Your first meal will be entirely liquid, and the doctors will encourage you to drink frequently in addition.

If you experience any back pain or discomfort during recovery, ask your nurse for pain medication. If you feel any pain in your chest, or see any bleeding at the point of insertion, notify the hospital staff immediately.

You should be "up and around," the day after the procedure. The first time you get out of your bed you may require assistance from a nurse, as you may feel light-headed. If there are no further complications, you will be permitted to go home several hours after the procedure.

When will we know the results of the catheterization?

Your doctor will be able to discuss the findings of the test either the same afternoon or the day after your procedure; a plan of therapy can then be discussed.

Are there noninvasive alternatives available?

While there is an excellent correlation between some of the newer techniques such as MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) and CTA (Computerized Tomographic Angiology) with the presence or absence of coronary arterial disease as well as certain anatomic abnormalities, these tests are more expensive and are used less often. Cardiac catheterization permits therapy to be delivered (this can not be done with the alternative procedures). Thus, a blockage in a coronary artery may be dealt with by angioplasty or stent at the same time. This cannot be done with MRI or CTA. MRI cannot be done in certain patients who have implanted devices, CTA delivers as much or more radiation than cardiac catheterization.

Sources 

Cardiac Catheterization: A Guide for Patients, from the University of Iowa Department of Internal Medicine, The Virtual Hospital Web site.