What is the name of the pad placed on a wound to absorb blood?

The pad placed on a wound to absorb blood is referred to as a dressing. Dressings serve several critical functions in wound management, including protecting the wound from contamination, providing a sterile environment, and promoting healing by absorbing exudate. They come in various materials and sizes, and their primary role is to aid in the healing process while preventing infection.

While gauze can also be used in the context of absorbing blood, it is specifically a type of material that is often used within a dressing. Gauze might be a component of a dressing or used in initial wound care; however, a dressing encompasses a broader category that includes any absorbent or protective layer applied over a wound.

Padding and wraps serve different purposes, typically related to cushioning or providing support to an injury rather than directly absorbing blood from an open wound. Thus, the term "dressing" most accurately describes the specific pad used for that purpose.