Yaffa,
I often see moms who were given nipple shields by lactation-illiterate nurses
for "flat nipples" which turn out to be engorgement.  I encourage them to use
ice and express a bit of milk, and then they are often able to get the baby on
the breast, if baby is not already habituated to having that latex in the
mouth.  ARGHH! Makes me want to scream.  I like your rental station policy:
that all nipple sheild questions get referred to you.  Bravo.
Catherine Watson Genna, IBCLC