i was induced with the gel with ds2. the ob told me that she would apply 2 lots of the gel, and if it did not work i would be sent home. the first application did nothing. we were all prepared to go home, and even rang my dad who was looking after ds1 to say we would probably be coming to pick him up soon as we were going to be sent home......anyway, the second application got things started and i ended up having him that night with no need for the drip.
so.....in answer to your question, check with your midwife what their particular procedure is, but i was definitely offered the option of going home after 2 lots of gel.