Hello: I know there are probably dozens of references in the archives for this type of situation, but I truly think *I'm* the one who needs support here, so please bear with me. I worked with a mom for at least 3 hours total tonight (thank god for orientation! What a fantasy in a hospital setting!) who has had problems with moderately flat nipples and poor latch on since birth. Our facility's remedy for this is the pump and supplement (glucose water) with a NUK nipple, and subsequently, baby has had continued difficulty with latch on-- screams when attempts are made, refuses to open mouth wide, and quiets when placed on moms shoulder. I feel that the baby is experiencing nipple confusion, and suggested that she try cup feeding (vs the NUK), which she was very relieved to try. Other staff is upset, says we can't cup feed d/t "risks of aspiration"; general consensus is that "nipple confusion is a fallacy-- and mom should give up". These are the attitudes that mom is going to face today, day staff will probably tell her I'm wrong, and very likely work hard to undo all the teaching I struggled so long and hard to get across. As a last resort, I suggested nipple shields until baby is nursing well-- certainly doesn't help with the confusion, but may boost mom's morale and keep the glucose water (I'm sure formulas not far behind) at bay until BF is better established. Other staff is against nipple shields for unclear reasons, and I'm at a complete loss. I know I shouldn't get emotionally attached, but I feel very lost in this situation-- mom is so very dedicated, and everything I've learned about lactation thus far has been rejected and scoffed at, completely unsupported. I doubt this will change. I know this is a list for professional queries, but this "professional" is really in need of some good, solid advice-- and some emotional support. Cyndi Koehler, RN in Racine WI