Question: When I patch my Windows servers, how do I ensure that the patches have actually been implemented?
Answer: With some patches requiring reboots and others not, this can be a risky assumption. The quick and easy way is to go into your Windows Control Panel, Add or Remove Programs, and check the Show Updates box at the top to see if the patches in question are installed.
If you're ever in doubt, you can always re-run the Microsoft/Windows Update on your Start Menu or download and run MBSA to see if you've missed anything.