Hemostatic agents are substances used to promote the cessation of bleeding by aiding the body's natural clotting process. They can be applied directly to a wound or used in surgical procedures to control blood loss. Common types include gauze infused with clotting factors, surgical sponges, and topical powders that help form a stable clot. These agents work by various mechanisms, such as enhancing platelet aggregation or providing a scaffold for clot formation. They are essential in emergency medicine, trauma care, and surgical settings, helping to improve patient outcomes by reducing the risk of excessive blood loss.