Final answer:
Induction of labor, using synthetic oxytocin or Pitocin, is a therapeutic procedure used when labor is not progressing normally, as with Janine, who was 41 weeks pregnant with a labor that was stalling.
Step-by-step explanation:
Therapeutic procedures to assist with labor and delivery become necessary when there are signs that the natural process of labor is not progressing as it should. Induction of labor is a therapeutic approach employed when someone like Janine, at 41 weeks pregnant, arrives at the birthing unit with signs of labor that is not progressing effectively. In her case, her contractions are mild, her cervix is only 2 cm dilated, and the amniotic sac is intact, which suggests that her labor is not advancing toward stage two, where the baby is expelled from the uterus.
The use of synthetic oxytocin, commonly known as Pitocin, is a form of medical induction that can stimulate uterine contractions. The aim is to restart and maintain labor progression. If successful, this can help avoid a Caesarian section, which is a major abdominal surgery with potential post-surgical complications for the mother.