When there is a discrepancy between safety guidance and the current SOP, what action aligns with maintaining a current quality system?

• A. Expedite updating the SOP to align with the latest safety guidance
• B. Ignore the new safety guidance until the next audit
• C. Discontinue use of the product until the next revision
• D. Doc the discrepancy but do nothing further

Answer: (A)

When safety guidance changes, the system stays strong only if the procedures you follow reflect those changes. Updating the SOP promptly through the change control process keeps the work aligned with current safety expectations, and this update is then approved, implemented, and communicated so staff are trained on the new steps. This keeps operations compliant, consistent, and safer.

Documenting a discrepancy without action leaves the procedure out of date and can lead to noncompliance or unsafe work. Ignoring the new guidance until a future audit misses an opportunity to prevent risk, and stopping product use is a drastic step that isn’t necessary unless the risk assessment says so. Updating the SOP to match the latest safety guidance is the best way to maintain an up-to-date quality system.