Clean the decks for surgical inspection perhaps (4)

I believe the answer is:

swab

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'clean the decks' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)

I don't understand the remainder of the clue.

(Other definitions for swab that I've seen before include "Hospital cleaner" , "Absorbent pad for cleansing or drying" , "Small pad for surgical use" , "Among others, Q-tip" , "Clean (a wound)" .)

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail.

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