Arthur’s visit to University Hospital Southampton

Wanting to better understand what happens to his samples and help ease those worries, Arthur and his family got in touch with the team at University Hospital Southampton to arrange a visit to the labs. For many patients, seeing these processes firsthand can help demystify their healthcare journey and make future visits feel more manageable.

The tour

During his visit, Arthur got to explore several areas of the laboratory. In Biochemistry, he took part in an experiment looking at how reagents change colour when added to different types of water, helping to show how scientists detect and measure substances in samples.

In Haematology, Arthur looked at blood films under the microscope, learning how the shape and appearance of cells can support diagnosis. He also visited Transfusion, where he saw donated units of blood and took part in an activity exploring how reaction patterns are used to determine blood groups.

Arthur’s visit finished with the 'emotions volcano' activity, whcih helps children understand how they might be feeling during their healthcare journey. Using vinegar, bicarbonate of soda and food colouring, the experiment creates a bubbling eruption that mirrors how emotions can build up and be expressed. As the reaction develops, it givesd the patient an opportunity to talk through different feelings, like nervousness, curiosity or confidence, and helps children put those emotions into words.

Arthur enjoyed the activity so much that his mum took the instructions home so he could try it again and share it with family and friends, continuing those conversations beyond the lab.

Thank you to the team at University Hospital Southampton for making Arthur’s visit so memorable.