The problem in a nutshell: Nursing home resident with weeping edema of lower extremity with large erosion. Doctor ordered "Apply Duoderm daily." As it was a holiday weekend, did not call doctor but faxed for clarification on order. Plastering a Duoderm on her eroded skin was against my better judgement. Wound was cleansed with saline and applied nonadherent dressing until I got an answer. Family member called and went ballistic. "Put the Duoderm on her now!" I did. Question: When are we within our rights to refuse to carry out an order? What to do when waiting for an answer, carry out the order anyway? Is there a standard protocol for this?