Doa

/ˌdiːoʊˈeɪ/ noun

Definition

An abbreviation for 'dead on arrival'—when someone arrives at a hospital or location already dead.

Etymology

An acronym from English medical and emergency response terminology, combining 'dead,' 'on,' and 'arrival' into a shortened form used by paramedics and doctors.

Kelly Says

Hospital abbreviations like DOA developed partly to communicate difficult information quickly and with professional distance, allowing medical workers to discuss tragic situations in a way that maintains emotional boundaries.

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