What item is placed over suture ends to prevent cutting into the skin?

Bolsters are specifically designed to be placed over the ends of sutures to provide additional support and prevent the sutures from cutting into the skin. This is particularly important in scenarios where there is tension on the suture line or if the suture material is prone to digging into the skin, which can lead to irritation, infection, or scarring.

By distributing the pressure more evenly and offering a cushion, bolsters help in maintaining the integrity of the wound closure while allowing for optimal healing. They are often used in situations where the skin is thick or under significant tension, thus enhancing patient comfort and reducing the risk of complications related to healing.

Other items, such as dressings, serve different purposes such as protection against infection and absorbing exudate but do not have the specific function of preventing sutures from cutting into the skin. Similarly, clips and pads have their uses in surgical settings but do not fulfill the same role as bolsters in this context.