update method for newbie

I had a look at the SuSE updates at http://linux01.gwdg.de/apt4rpm/ (9.1 x86_64) I found three options: RPM Patch-RPM Source-RPM As a newbie the last option is out for me. I am nervous about option 2 because: what if I have missed an intermediate update? So, if I go for the first option do I have to uninstall the current package first, or (like that other OS) can I install over top? Thanks for all opinions, Colin