Final answer:
The ANA cites Nursing Practice Guidelines as the primary source of evidence to measure performance outcomes against standards of care. Option D is correct.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to the American Nurses Association (ANA), the primary source of evidence to measure performance outcomes against standards of care is Nursing Practice Guidelines.
These guidelines are systematically developed statements to assist practitioner and patient decisions about appropriate health care for specific clinical circumstances.
Nursing practice guidelines are informed by a synthesis of evidence from research studies and are evaluated on a regular basis to ensure they maintain currency with new evidence.