How can you confirm the accuracy of a preplanned route before starting a run?

• A. Rely on GPS alone without cross-checking with dispatch.
• B. Use personal experience only.
• C. Start route without validation.
• D. Review addresses, landmarks, and cross-streets with dispatch; confirm route is current for traffic.

Answer: (D)

Confirming the accuracy of a preplanned route relies on cross-checking with dispatch and validating current traffic conditions before you depart. Review the exact addresses to ensure you’re routing to the correct locations, note nearby landmarks to help identify the route quickly, and identify cross-streets for clear orientation. Then ask dispatch to confirm the route and verify that it reflects current traffic, closures, or any recent changes. This approach uses up-to-date information from a reliable source and accounts for real-time conditions, reducing the risk of detours, delays, or getting lost—crucial for patient care and crew safety. Relying on GPS alone can be unreliable if signals are weak or data is outdated, and relying only on personal experience may not reflect current road conditions or closures, nor is starting without validation safe.