My experience has been the opposite of Kathleen's.  I find that  the
wannabes (Is that how we're spelling this word?) in my institution are
so convinced that breastfeeding can and will and must work (no matter
what happened previously to make it not work) that they sometimes miss
the signs that say some additional intervention is needed
(supplementation, for example).  When they do use devices, rather than
seeing them use them too soon, I am more likely to see use of what I
would consider the "wrong" device (or certainly not the best choice in
that particular circumstance).  I think they tend to use the device with
which they are most familiar or comfortable (don't we all, at least to
some extent?)

However, I must also say that the wannabes with whom I work make a big
difference for moms and babies by really helping them with latch, by
recognizing there is a problem and calling me, and in using assistive
devices when needed.  This latter skill comes in varying degrees; I have
some wannabe who are quite good at assessment and choice of appropriate
interventions.

Bonnie Jones, RN, ICCE, IBCLC
Hospital lactation consultant in the sunny S.W. USA