Oxytocin (Pitocin)

Oxytocin is a hormone and medication used to induce labor or strengthen contractions. Pitocin is a brand name. Because excessive uterine activity can reduce the time for placental blood flow between contractions, clinicians monitor contraction frequency, fetal heart rate, dose, and response. Use of oxytocin does not by itself indicate negligence. A legal review examines the reason for treatment, orders, dosing changes, uterine activity, fetal monitoring, interventions, and delivery timing.