Which of the following conditions is least likely to be a complication of dialysis?

Dialysis is a treatment for patients with kidney failure that helps perform the functions of the kidneys, including the removal of waste products and excess fluid. While there are several potential complications associated with dialysis, hypertension is generally not considered one of the primary complications stemming from this procedure.

In fact, patients undergoing dialysis often struggle with hypotension (low blood pressure) during or immediately after treatment due to the fluid removal that occurs. This is in contrast to the other conditions listed, which are more commonly associated with dialysis.

Peritonitis can occur particularly in peritoneal dialysis, due to infection of the peritoneal cavity. Muscle cramps can develop during hemodialysis as a result of rapid fluid removal and electrolyte shifts. Fluid overload, while a complication of reduced kidney function, is typically addressed by dialysis; however, it can still occur if fluid removal is inadequate or dietary restrictions are not followed carefully.

Hypertension, though it can be an issue for patients prior to initiating dialysis, is not commonly linked as a complication arising specifically as a consequence of the dialysis process itself, making it the least likely complication listed. This differentiation is crucial in understanding the patient's management and the monitoring needed during dialysis treatment.