Final answer:
The chest drainage system should be kept below the patient's chest level during transfer to ensure proper functioning and to prevent complications such as backflow into the pleural cavity.
Step-by-step explanation:
When transferring a thoracotomy patient to recovery, it is crucial to ensure that the chest drainage system is properly managed to prevent complications such as pneumothorax, hemothorax, or infection. The chest drainage system must always be kept below the patient's chest level to facilitate the gravity drainage of air and fluid from the pleural space. If the system is placed above the patient's chest, it can allow backflow into the pleural cavity, potentially causing complications.
Maintaining the drainage system at the correct level relative to the patient is essential for its proper function. The system is based on gravity, and incorrect positioning can hinder the effectiveness of the drain and can be detrimental to the patient's recovery. During patient transfer, it is advisable to keep the system close to the patient to prevent dislodgement or pulling of the tubing, yet always keeping in mind that the container must remain below the level of the chest to ensure proper drainage.
The final answer is that the chest drainage system should be maintained below the patient's chest level (D) during the transfer to recovery. This position ensures the proper functioning of the system and helps to prevent any complications related to improper drainage.