Reinstating the use of nitrous oxide on Ipswich Hospital's maternity wards has been delayed after the ventilation units they received were found to be 'unsuitable'.
The use of nitrous oxide was suspended on Tuesday, December 6, after it was found that residual levels in the air were unsafe.
The hospital advised that an immediate order for 13 mobile units was made and that they would take five to seven days to arrive.
Emma Sweeney, deputy chief nurse at East Suffolk and North Essex NHS Foundation Trust, said: "We are very grateful for everyone's support as we work towards putting in mobile ventilation units at Ipswich Maternity unit."
She said that while they did receive the units, otherwise known as scavengers, within days, they were unfortunately "unsuitable" for their maternity wards.
The hospital is now sourcing a different kind of mobile ventilation unit but cannot at this time give an updated on the delivery timeframe.
Ms Sweeney added: "Pregnant women and people have been so understanding and our midwives are supporting them in making choices about alternative pain relief options."
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