What is the term for a sterile cover put over a wound?

The term for a sterile cover put over a wound is a dressing. A dressing is specifically designed to protect the wound from infection, absorb exudate, and promote healing. It is often sterile to ensure that no additional bacteria are introduced into the wound site, which is critical in preventing infections.

In contrast, a bandage generally refers to a material used to secure a dressing over a wound but does not necessarily have to be sterile itself. Bandages can also be used for support or to hold other gauze or dressings in place. A Bandaid is a brand name for a specific kind of adhesive bandage that includes a small dressing for minor cuts and scrapes but may not encompass all types of sterile dressing used in medical settings. The term wrap is more generic and can refer to various types of coverings but does not specifically imply sterility or wound treatment. Thus, dressing is the most accurate term to describe a sterile cover used explicitly for wound care.